Dave John Dobson

December 20, 1953 - February 16, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Dave Dobson, who passed away suddenly at his home on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at the age of 71.

Dave was predeceased by his parents, Cecil Dobson and Ida (née Buttle), and his brother Jim Dobson in 2018. He is survived by his sister-in-law, Beth Dobson, nephew Jayson Dobson, and niece Jayme Montero. Dave will be fondly remembered by his countless friends and athletes.

Born and raised on a dairy farm just outside of Cobden, Dave was a graduate of Opeongo High School who dedicated much of his life to teaching and coaching.

He earned his Bachelor of Arts from Carleton University and a Bachelor of Education from the University of Toronto. He spent 28 years working as a high school teacher and volleyball coach with the Durham Board of Education and Pine Ridge Kawartha Board of Education. Dave founded the Durham College men's volleyball program in 1977, leading the team to numerous Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) victories, including a gold medal and multiple silver and bronze medals. He was a four-time recipient of the prestigious OCAA Coach of the Year Award and was inducted into the Durham College Sports Hall of Fame in 2003.

Dave also coached the Canadian Olympic Men's Volleyball team during an exhibition game against Russia and was twice awarded the 3M Award for Coaching Excellence in Canada. He was nominated for the Governor General Award for Teaching Excellence in Canada.

After retiring, Dave returned to Cobden, where he continued coaching volleyball at Opeongo High School and founded the Ottawa Valley Vikings Volleyball Club. Under his leadership, the club grew to 13 teams and 146 athletes. His dedication to fundraising and mentorship helped shape the club’s success.

In 2022, Dave was elected as a trustee with the Renfrew County School Board. In honor of his dedication, all flags at RCDSB schools and administrative buildings were flown at half-mast.

Visitation will be held at Fraser-Morris & Heubner Funeral Home, Cobden, on Saturday, March 1, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:45 p.m., followed by a funeral service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Cobden, at 2:00 p.m. Spring interment will take place at St. Patrick’s Anglican Cemetery, Lower Stafford.

A Celebration of Dave’s Life will be held in Oshawa at the Durham College Athletic Wellness Center on March 29, 2025, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Fraser-Morris & Heubner Funeral Home.