David Lawrence Thompson passed away peacefully at home on the evening of February 21, 2022 at the age of 75. Born August 8, 1946 in Windsor, Ontario to Gordon and Mildred Thompson. Beloved husband of Olivia Thompson (nee Uhlman) for 51 years. Survived by his sister, Pamela Purcell, and his children Tania (Mike McNamara), Shawn, and James (Geneviève Grossenbacher). Dave treasured his grandchildren Olivia, Catherine, Julia, Nicolas, Thomas, and Frédéric as well as his nieces and nephews.
Dave joined the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1965 where he proudly served for 34 years. He spent the majority of his career as an Air Navigator on the CP-107 Argus and CP-140 Aurora maritime patrol aircrafts, where he logged 6516 hours of flight time. While Dave loved to fly with a crew, he eventually accepted a post to National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa in 1988, where he continued to support his fellow air crew by working on aircraft upgrade projects until his retirement. His time at NDHQ was interrupted for an 8 month period spanning 1995 to 1996, when Dave was deployed to the former Yugoslavia as a Military Observer with the UN Peacekeeping mission.
During his personal time, Dave enjoyed all things related to curling, aviation, and cars (domestic, NASCAR, and Formula 1). He also had great skill and knowledge of home improvement and woodworking.
Dave was a devoted patriarch of a tight-knit family, who loved him deeply. Incredibly proud of his family, he could recount details of their lives in a heartbeat, no matter how far away they lived. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather and a generous soul, always putting his family first.
A private family viewing was held at the Beechwood Memorial Centre in Ottawa. A private family interment was held on February 26th, 2022 in the National Military Cemetery of Beechwood. Dave is resting at (Sec. 103, Gr. 1683A) and maps are available at the Beechwood Office.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Misha Marovac, Nurse Practitioner Meghan McDonald, Ottawa Paramedic Service, Nurse Diane from St. Elizabeth’s, Home and Community Support Services (Champlain), and the staff of the Montfort Hospital for the excellent care they provided.
For those who wish to make a donation in Dave’s memory, Wounded Warriors Canada, Montfort Hospital Foundation, or a charity of your choice, would be appreciated.
PER ARDUA AD ASTRA
(Through Adversity to the Stars)
Digital Guestbook
Darlene & Marty Freda
Mike Adair
My sincere condolences to my old friend Olivia her family and all those who knew Dave.
Barbara McMullen
I am so sorry for your loss Olivia and family. Dave sounds like he was a wonderful man. I am sure he will be missed.
Peter and Terrie Kember
Dave was such a brave man, never complaining about his ailments but “soldiering” on quietly. A favorite with everyone and a steadfast and loyal husband, father and grandfather. It was a pleasure to know him. His memories live on….
Bert Campbell
My condolences on Dave's passing.
Fred Rideout
Our condolences to all his family and friends.
Harry Nash
Sorry to hear of Dave's passing. He was a great crewmate and a fine officer.
Leif-Erik Wadelius
Sincere condolences to his family on the passing of Dave.
Faye & Chuck Langtry
Dear Olivia. We were so very saddened to read of Dave's passing. We will remember him fondly from our days in Greenwood.
Gerry Zanussi
Dave was a course mate both in Centralia and again at the OTU in Summerside. We had many good times together and am sure he will be missed by all. It was my good fortune to have known him.
So sorry to read the passing of your father Tanya. Our deepest sympathy and our thought are with you and your family.