With great sorrow, the family of Del McCaw announce his passing on July 12, 2023. After a brief illness, he passed quietly, at 96 years of age.
He is survived by his wife, Ilse, of 68 years, daughters Karen and Leah, son Cameron (Rebecca), grandchildren Arla (Mike), Colleen, Dylan (Sophia) and Alanna (Kyle), and various nieces and nephews across the country.
Born in Fort Qu’Appelle, Saskatchewan, he worked on various family farms, then moved to Saskatoon to become a member of the Saskatoon City Police force, where he eventually worked in Ident (now known as forensics). He met Ilse on a blind date, married in 1955, had 3 kids and moved to BC in 1966. The family settled in Sidney, bought a small motel, which became a 24 hour a day repair project. Whatever he worked at, he always worked hard. In 1970, he went back to school, to BCIT in the fish and wildlife program. Despite being twice the age of the rest of his classmates, (and being referred to as ‘Gramps’) he made many lifelong friends. He took a job with the BC Government as Fisheries Inspector travelling the coast of BC by company boat, roads and planes, inspecting fish plants and canning facilities.
As free time became more available, it allowed him to pursue a long-time passion of flying. He got his private pilot license and went up as often as possible. For his 52nd birthday, a flight of a different kind was arranged – an Ultra Light plane on floats. While he said he enjoyed it, what he didn’t enjoy was the hypothermia that resulted from ditching the plane in the ocean off a Victoria coastline. Made a great story for the newspaper though, after his teeth quit chattering. Family holidays were spent sailing and camping. Overseas travels were to Iceland, China, mainland Europe, Egypt, Ireland and England, hiking the Queen Charlotte Islands and the Milford Track in New Zealand. When he and Ilse retired, they bought an RV and toured all over North America. They stayed for a while on Karen’s property on Saltspring Island, until they moved into the condo in Sidney. They remained active for a while in the United church, and with various private social groups they belonged to.
Always one to lend a hand, quick to smile, hospitable and humble, he will be missed by many. Thank you to the wonderful palliative care staff at Saanich Peninsula Hospital, for making his last days comfortable. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer Society of BC.
At his request, there won’t be a formal service, however, a celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
Rest now, dad. You’ve earned it.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Karen Hillis
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Sherrie & Dave Haines Our condolences to the McCaw family. What a great age 96! We think of you folks often. We have enjoyed the company of Del and Ilse over the years. Your family will miss Del, but I know they have a lot of really great memories to make them smile. It warms the heart to have known Del.
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Larry and flo sullivan Dear Ilsa, we are so sorry for your loss seems so little to say. We hope he was with little pain in his illness, and that you are being taken care of by your lovely family.
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Bev Dale Dear Ilse and family. So sorry to hear about Del. He was a very special person and a wonderful friend! My mom, Fran Dale, now 102 years of age, spent many happy hours in the company of Del and Ilse socializing with a great group of neighbours. Del was so kind and considerate in helping mom out whenever the need arose. I also had the privilege of knowing Del. Our sincere condolences in your loss. Fran Dale, Bev Dale
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Deb Redman My condolences to the whole family. Del and Ilse were a strong presence in the life of St Paul’s United Church. Del was a very kind and generous man and always ready to lend a hand. He was also a great storyteller and a good friend. He will be profoundly missed.
It has been 6 months Dad and I miss you every day.
love karen