Passed away on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 in the Sault where he and his wife, Betty, lived, on and off, since their arrival from Scotland in 1957.
Born in 1929 in Glasgow, Scotland, Dave demonstrated a lifelong aptitude for math and science which meant, in those days, engineering was his vocation. After finishing high school at 16, he worked as a survey engineer through the day, studied for his engineering qualifications at night and went rock climbing on the weekends. An avid walker and climber, he was always on the lookout for a new route and remembered them fondly 70 years later.
He and Betty married in 1957 and emigrated to Canada right away. He worked as a civil engineer in the Sault, Prescott, Saskatoon, Thompson, Peterborough, Sidney, Coldwater and Sudbury as well as for a stint in Algeria for the Foundation Company which later became Stone & Webster. From 1957 to 1975 when they set down more permanent roots in the Sault, they moved 30 times! They managed many trips back to Scotland to see family and to revisit his favourite hills as well as trips to France, Brazil and Portugal.
Cards and games were a big part of the Riddick household and duplicate bridge caught their interest in the early 60’s and held it until well into the 2000’s. He and Betty both became Life Masters and directors for the local ACBL club where Dave also served for many years in a multitude of roles. Bridge, and the people who played it, were a big part of their lives. At home, cards were always close at hand for a game of Hells Bells, Hearts or Solo.
After retiring in 1994, Dave threw himself into a variety of interests with the same fervor that he did for work. Whether it was Scottish country dancing, genealogy research, tai chi or gardening, he went at it fully and with great excitement.
In later years, he and Betty spent a lot of time travelling to see their four children, 14 grandchildren and a growing number of great grandchildren. He spent many hours walking his dogs and they occupied a special place in his heart even when other memories were fading.
Betty and Bill (Jennie), Kit (Ian), David (Josiane) and Andrew would like to thank the compassionate staff at Extendicare Maple View who cared for Dave in his final 18 months.
If you would like to do something in Dave’s memory, please consider planting something that can be enjoyed for years to come as a memory of his green thumb and far-reaching interests.
Arrangements entrusted to Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758). www.northwoodfuneral.com