David F. Tribe

TRIBE, David F. November 18, 1919 October 23, 2010 Dave passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, just short of his 91st birthday. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Ruby on July 7, 2009. After residing for many years in Toronto where Dave was based as an Air Canada pilot, they retired to Sidney 35 years ago. Born in Comox, Dave was the son of Mary Helen (Wise) and Maurice Bedingfield Tribe. He was predeceased by his twin brothers Norm and his wife Tiny, and John. He is survived by his sister June and Joe English of Nova Scotia, and sister-in-law Kay of Comox. Also left to mourn his passing are numerous nieces and nephews, including his companion Maureen Uphill, who was devoted to Dave's care and well-being; David and Barbara Tribe, Kathleen and Jeff Peace, and Barbara Tribe, all of Comox. Richard and Anne Tribe of St. Marys, Ont; and Douglas Tribe of Marysville, Wash; as well as Brian and Johanna Uphill of Aldergrove, and Dennis and Sandra Uphill of Langley; plus a number of grand/great nieces and nephews. Dave trained as an RCAF pilot and received his wings in Alberta, and was seconded to the RAF during WW II. He was assigned to the Lancaster Conversion Unit and posted to 12 Squadron, flying 30 successful missions over enemy territory. Dave was highly decorated, but his proudest moment was receiving the Distinguished Flying Medal from King George VI in October 1943. In May 1945, Dave joined TransCanada Airlines and logged 28,000 hours before retiring from Air Canada in November 1979. Among his career highlights was the inaugural North American flight of the Viscount from Montreal to Winnipeg in 1955. In pursuit of his life-long passion, Dave golfed all over the UK, the US and Canada; and attended two Ryder Cups. In 1984, he won the Vancouver Island Seniors Golf Championship. Over the years, he made six holes-in-one. A celebration of Dave's remarkable life will be held from 2-4 pm on Sunday, October 31, 2010 at the Royal Colwood Golf Club. Dave was an animal lover and a generous contributor to charitable causes. In his memory, donations may be made to the Nana Foundation (PO Box 31114, University Heights RPO, Victoria BC V8N 6J3), the animal rescue service from which he and Ruby received Rosie who gave them years of unconditional love and enjoyment. 608462