Skip to content

WAITE, Richard (Dick) David

1930 – 2011


Dick passed away at home in Courtenay on May 17, 2011, after a long illness. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, June, his daughters, Leslie (Keith) Davies, and Tracy (Chris Roberts) Waite. He is also survived by his 8 grandchildren, Michelle, Melanie, John, Roslyn, Linda, Ashley, Richard, and Cara; as well as 12 great grandchildren, Zachary, Sabrina, Jordon, Tarrin, Parker, Christopher, Zandon, Abigail, Wyatt, Kingsley, Henry and Frederick. These children all brought great joy to his life – their Pops! He is also survived by 4 siblings as well as many nieces and nephews. He was devastated when he was predeceased by his son Rick in 2007.


Dick was born in Paignton, Devon, England, on June 23, 1930. The family immigrated to Canada in 1935 and settled in the Kitsilano area of Vancouver.


He was a talented athlete and participated in many different sports over his lifetime – an excellent bowler, swimmer, diver, ball player, boxer, soccer player, rugby player, curler – to name a few – he tried them all and did them well. In Vancouver he pitched for such teams as Colliers Motors and Burrard Hotel. One of his fondest memories was of being a coach/player of the Leakey Logging ball team in Courtenay – he was delighted to be playing on the same team as his son.


Dick proudly served in the RCAF/CAF from 1954 to 1974. During this time he was stationed at St Jean, Que; Centralia, Ont; Comox, BC; Holberg, BC; St Hubert, Que; Comox, BC and finally Ottawa, Ont. He made many friends in the military – friendships that endured. Life after retirement from the military included working at Courtenay Lumber, Payless Buildall, building two houses of his own, and also being a big part in building houses for his 3 kids. He enjoyed building radio controlled model airplanes and for quite a few years spent a lot of time at the local field and club. When friends and family came to visit or stay he was in his element – it was a fun time for everyone. He loved being the host. His greenhouse, his garden and growing tomatoes for one and all gave him a lot of pleasure as did his three-times-a-day walks around the block with his little pal, Dubbin. It was his social time, chatting with all the neighbours.


The family would like to thank all the people who made life easier for him during the last months including Dr. Anderson, the visiting VIHA nurses, the especially Sandy who was so very helpful.


There will be a gathering to celebrate Dick's life at Crown Isle, Courtenay, on June 4, 2011 from 1 to 3pm. In lieu of flowers, for those who wish to do so, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 1509 Cliffe Ave., Courtenay, or a charity of your choice.



Your condolences will be approved within one business day. You will need a valid Facebook account. Please email us if you have any questions.