March 11, 1943 - July 26, 2022
It is with deep sadness we share the news, on July 26th, our much-loved father Dave Gage passed away at the age of 79.
Dad was born in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, first born to parents Fred & Edith Gage followed by two sisters Frances and Beverly.
Dave is survived by the greatest joys of his life, his children and grandchildren:
Son Marty Gage (Melanie)
Daughters Barbara Clarkson (Jim)
Susan Johnson (Joe)
Grandchildren; Josh, Luke and Faith
Dad loved sports and spent his childhood playing hockey and baseball.
At a very early age, Dad left school to follow in his father's footsteps, joining Dominion Catering. This led to running camps all over Canada and to this day it was the time of his life he talked about the most.
As a young adult he enjoyed owning fancy cars, nothing like being in a gold Buick Electra cruising from Ontario to Manitoba every chance he got. It was while travelling to Brandon, he met and married his wife of many years, Jean.
Also, while in Brandon, he earned his pilot's license and his passion for planes and flying began. This passion continued as shown by his many years contributing to the 101 Squadron in Port Hardy. He was a proud Canadian.
While working with Dominion catering Dad was sent North to Kitsault and eventually settled in Port Hardy to work at BHP Utah. It wasn't long before he saw an opportunity and opened his first restaurant, Godfathers Pizza in 1972.
Dad built, opened and operated many successful businesses; including the Sportsman Steak House, the North Shore Inn and the Quarterdeck Marina and Hotel just to name a few.
Dad was a proud sponsor of many things, he contributed endlessly to Minor Hockey and one of his proudest moments was returning home from Victoria with a cheque to build a new arena.
If you lived in Port Hardy, there was a good chance you enjoyed some of his amazing cooking including the less fortunate, who were treated to traditional Christmas dinners that he provided. He would never think of turning anyone away.
One of his great loves was being on the water, from Hardy Bay to Rivers Inlet, where his trophy Springs reached 70 pounds. Dad loved his boats, his pride and joy being his beloved Sea Ray the Sam Too.
He also enjoyed starting up the World War 1 Old timers Hockey and hosted the Canucks Alumni for years, travelling to many tournaments including the Pacific Cup.
Upon retirement, he called Campbell River his home, where he stayed close to his family and continued to donate his time and support to service groups like the Eagles and the Legion.
Dad leaves us a lifetime of cherished memories we will never let be forgotten, including his love for Country Music.
A private family gathering will take place, however, please raise your glass and toast a memorable man, they just don't make them like that anymore.
We love you Dad
Barbie, Susie & Marty