It is with heavy hearts, and deep gratitude for a life so well lived, that we announce the passing of Dave “Bucky” Hall at the age of 88, on April 22, 2026, in Markham, Ontario.

Born and raised in Scarborough, Dave was a man who embraced life fully from an early age. Whether it was football, baseball, or hockey, he loved the game—and more importantly, the people he played it with. That love of sport never left him. He continued to play into adulthood and found even greater joy behind the bench, coaching hockey for both kids and adults. He wasn’t just teaching the game—he was building confidence, friendships, and community.

Dave dedicated 38 years of his career to Bell Canada, where his strong work ethic and steady presence earned the respect of colleagues and friends alike. But beyond his work, it was who he was as a person that left the greatest mark.

Bucky was larger than life. A big personality with an even bigger heart, he was always ready to lend a hand, share a laugh, or open his door to anyone who needed it. If you were lucky enough to know him, you had a friend for life.

His greatest pride, however, was his family. Together with his beloved wife of 67 years, Liz, he built not just a life, but a legacy. Nowhere was that more evident than at the cottage—a place that became an oasis for his children and grandchildren, where memories were made and traditions took root.

As a grandfather, he was unwavering. It didn’t matter if it was a hockey game in St. Catharines, a gymnastics meet in Toronto, a swim meet in Milton, a skating performance in Newmarket, or a graduation in Montreal—if it was important to his grandchildren, he and Liz were there. Always in the stands, always cheering, always proud. Their presence was constant, their support unconditional, and those moments will be remembered just as deeply as the milestones themselves.

Dave will be deeply missed by his loving wife Liz; his children Lori (James), Glenn (Savi), and Brent; his grandchildren Emma (Alex), Meghan (Dylan), Ethan, Shannon (Ben), Olivia (Mark), Connor (Sabrina), and Kate; and his great-grandchildren Nolan, Finn, and Lia.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the caring staff at Markhaven and to his dedicated care worker, Rebecca, for their compassion and support.

Visitation will take place at 1:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life at 2:00 p.m. on May 14, 2026, at Dixon-Garland Funeral Home, 166 Main Street, Markham. A reception will follow at the Duchess of Markham. In lieu of flowers, donations in Dave’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer Society of York Region or Markhaven Home for Seniors.

He was always there—on the sidelines, in the stands, and in the lives of those he loved—and that is where he will remain.

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