Dad left us on November 12, 2021 after a brief struggle with age related health issues. Dad is survived by his wife Bev Hurd and his children Kirk, Kathleen, Blair (Laureen), Guy and Neil, grandchildren James, Jeremy (Mady), Krista, Keely, Kayla (Travis), Dana, and Em.
He was delighted to meet his only great-grandchild Rosie Jean earlier this year, which turned out to be a special gift for a man so proud of his family.
He was born and raised in Saskatchewan, the third, and last surviving child in a family of seven. After university and a brief stint with the air force during the war, Dad met and married Joan MacDougall and they moved to Edmonton where they raised their 5 children while he pursued a career in the oil patch.
In 1982, Dad retired to Vancouver Island, moving into the house his parents retired to 35 years earlier. While on the island, he met his second wife and best friend Bev and they enjoyed 32 happy years together. Dad had a lifelong passion for fitness and was a very talented athlete in his youth having competed in three sports at the university level.
In retirement he gained a reputation as an authority on gardening where he spent many happy hours; but perhaps his biggest passion was dogs. He owned a series of them, mostly big and all rescues. They were his constant companions and he continued to go on vigorous walks through the bush with his pets well into his 90's.
Our thanks to the wonderful staff at Stanford care home in Parksville who cared for Dad so professionally before and during the Covid lock down.
In memory of Dad, donations are encouraged to a charity of your choice.
To send a condolence to the family please visit www.yatesmemorial.ca
Yates Memorial Services 250.248.5859
"Lives Cherished and Celebrated"
Yates Memorial Services