DILLON, DAVID WILLIAM
David William Dillon, 68, died on December 27th, 2015. Born to the late John and Francis Dillon (nee White) on September 3rd, 1947, in Toronto, ON. Dave resided across Canada and in Germany during his life in the military and chose residence in Fredericton, NB on retirement from the Canadian Forces in 1991.
The love of his life, Gertrude-Ann Feeney of Fredericton NB, survives David along with an extensive family. David loved his family, friends and held a great passion for the outdoors. Dave also leaves behind a legacy as a steadfast mentor in the military, where the ‘The Bear’ left his mark of indelible ink upon many lives. Dave is also survived by his children, Allen (Lisa McKillop), Matt (Lisa Hazeldine) and Joe (Brandi Kelley) Dillon, step-daughters Lisa Doucet (Ante Vezina) and Lori (Stephen Carruthers), brothers Dan, John (Glenda), Brian (Noreen) and sister Debbie (Don Martin). David loved his seven grandchildren Alyssa, Gabriel, Leigh, Karli, Jacob, Julian and Nikeita. They were the sparkle in his eye and while they lived so far away, not a day passed where they weren’t in his thoughts. There was always an extra jump in his step when they were near.
David served 28 years in the Canadian Forces and was a decorated soldier of the Royal Canadian Armour Corps. He served in three regiments and relished the majority of his career with the 8th Canadian Hussars (Princess Louise’s). Dave earned a reputation as a tremendous mentor to the wayward soldiers, setting them on a straight path and lasting careers. He wore the title of ‘The Bear’ for the grumbling that motivated many and for the heart of a teddy bear when it came to dealing with the challenges of his troops. Carebear would certainly have been a fitting nickname. Dave retired from the CF in 1991 and became a respected business man in Fredericton where he owned and managed DWD Computer Services until his full retirement seven years ago. He was a trusted friend, offering help to anyone who asked for it and to many who didn’t. Dave’s sometimes gruff exterior fooled few, for close to the surface was a bleeding heart to those in need.
Along with his deep love and respect for Gertrude-Ann "Gert", Dave held a passion for the outdoors and leaves his family with a legacy of tremendous adventures in youth and life. The hunt camp was dear to him, as was the legacy and time spent with Albert Feeney who started the camp back in the 1940’s. He will be deeply missed on the shores of Lake George where he cherished his summers with Gert, family and friends.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 30th, 2015, at 4 to 7pm at McAdam’s Funeral Home (160 York St., Fredericton) where a short Royal Canadian Legion’s Service will be held at 4:00pm. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, December 31st at 12pm at the Holy Family Catholic Church, father Monte Peters presiding, on the Hanwell Road Fredericton followed by a short reception. Interment will take place at the St. Patrick’s Cemetery at 5pm in New Market, NB.
Memorial tributes can be made to Holy Family Catholic Church, Fredericton, NB, St. Patrick’s Cemetery, New Market and the Royal Canadian Legion Branch # 4. Online condolences may be made at www.mcadamsfh.com