Obituary of Ed Dalgity

Peacefully at the South Huron Hospital in Exeter on August 8, 2018: Ed Dalgity at the age of 95.  He was the beloved husband of Freda (deceased 2017) for 68 years and the cherished father of Barbara, Jim (June), Cathy (Peter Henderson), and Carolyn. He is the much loved grandfather of Michael, Gregory (Sabrina), Colin, Patrick (Jen), Jamie and Erin and the proud great grandfather of Caleb, Andrew, Brian, Sean, Stella and Eddison.

Dad was born in London Ontario on February 16, 1923, the son of Edward and Ruby Dalgity.  He was pre-deceased by his infant sister Ruby, his brothers-in-law Mac, Jack, Don and Cy and his sister-in-law Beth.  He is survived by his sisters-in-law Helen, Ruby and Julia as well as many nieces and nephews.

In his youth Dad excelled at sports, especially baseball and hockey.  Instead of playing professional sports, he made the decision to enlist in the Canadian Air Force in spite of being underage.  He served overseas as ground crew in the 426 Thunderbird Squadron.  After the war he returned to London and worked at various jobs before joining the London Fire Department in 1948. HIs career took him from fighting fires through to fire prevention and inspection and, after a distinguished career, he retired in 1983.

After his retirement Dad enjoyed many activities, including traveling with Mom, frequenting various local restaurants, again with Mom, golfing with friends, flying with Bruce, having Friday lunches at the RCAFA 427 Wing, making and eating maple syrup, teaching his grandkids how to drive a lawn tractor, watching sports, especially those played by his children and grandchildren, and, in general, enjoying life. “Papa” loved and was loved in return by his many canine grand puppies. He was great at keeping in touch with his non-canine friends as well. 

His remarkable memory and his enjoyment of telling stories about his life’s journeys impressed listeners of all ages. The details of memories spanning decades sounded like they were yesterday’s adventures. Dad had a profound faith and, until a few weeks ago, was still singing the hymns he used to sing when he was a soloist in the  Lobo Baptist Church. Dad will be remembered as being generous, loving, kind and someone who was always there for his family and friends.

His family wish to thank the staff of the South Huron Hospital for their excellent care of Dad for the past 3 weeks.

Friends will be received at the Elliot Madill Funeral Home in Komoka on Sunday August 12 from 2-4 and 7-9.  A private service will follow.

As an expression of sympathy, in memorial donations to the First Lobo Baptist Church, the South Huron Hospital Foundation, the RCAFA 427 Wing, or the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals would be appreciated by his family.