Remembering David John Woodhouse 'Dave'

August 23, 1952 - June 14, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of David John Woodhouse, known to family and friends as Dave, who will be deeply missed and forever loved by all who knew him.

Family meant everything to Dave. He leaves behind his beloved wife and best friend Debbie; his only daughter Victoria, whom he famously delivered himself while en route to the hospital and who remained one of his greatest sources of pride throughout his life; his stepson Jason (Lucy); his cherished grandson Jacob, whose baseball and hockey games brought him so much joy; and his stepson Stephen. He will also be deeply missed by his beloved grand dogs, who were always part of the family.

Dave was born and raised in The Beaches in Toronto. As a young man, his talent as a baseball pitcher took him to the University of Alabama, where he began his professional baseball career before an injury eventually brought him back home to Canada. Returning to Ontario, Dave began a long and respected career with the Ontario Provincial Police, first serving in Owen Sound, then Downsview, and later at the OPP Academy in Brampton, where he met Debbie, who would become not only his wife, but his best friend and partner in life.

Throughout his OPP career, Dave was known for his leadership and his deep commitment to service. While with the Training Branch, he developed specialized victim awareness training programs in partnership with TV Ontario, creating educational resources used across the province, work that earned him a Commissioner’s Commendation.

During his years with the OPP, Dave was also a proud member of the Golden Helmets precision motorcycle team, a role that reflected both his dedication to service and his lifelong love of motorcycles.

Dave had a curious mind and a real appreciation for life. He loved motorcycle trips, golfing, travelling, science and space, testing his knowledge with Jeopardy!, and working through crossword puzzles. Some of his happiest times were spent cheering on Jacob from the sidelines, riding his motorcycle on the open road, and being with the people he loved most.

Dave will be remembered for the way he lived life fully, the love he gave so freely, and the many memories he leaves behind for those lucky enough to have known him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, July 12th from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Hawk Ridge Golf Club in Orillia. Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Dave’s life, with a short tribute beginning at 3:00 p.m.

In honour of Dave and the vibrant life he lived, guests are encouraged to wear colour as we come together to share stories, laughter, and memories.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Dave’s memory may be made to the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation – Carry the Fire Fund, supporting vital cancer research and care.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Arrangements entrusted to Carson Funeral Homes L. Doolittle Chapel, 54 Coldwater St. E., Orillia (705) 326-3595.