John David Luckett

Born in Toronto in 1948 to Isobel and Gerry Luckett, Dave eventually called North Bay home. After college, Dave began his geology career in Manitouwadge before moving to Timmins, where he started his family.

Dave had many passions, but his legendary love of fishing stands out among the others. He spent all the time he could on fly-in fishing trips with his family, drilling and cleaning holes in frozen lakes, and enjoying quiet days on his boat in the middle of nowhere. Any and every lake had the potential for walleye, and thus an opportunity for a great day. Find yourself fishing anywhere near him and you’d hear loud, enthusiastic exclamations all day long. “It’s got size!” he would yell, regardless of what may or not be at the end of his line. His rods and reels were virtually extensions of his body and formed a collection so vast they filled a dedicated room.

Dave was competitive, especially as a young man where he racked up accolades in judo, wrestling, badminton, and snowmobile racing. This desire to win also extended to the card table, where his notorious reputation for unpredictable strategies and wild, hail-mary plays often lead to success, much to the frustration and confusion of his opponents. He brought so much energy and fun to the table, everyone wanted to play when Dave was playing, whether to witness the spectacle or be lucky enough to be his partner.

As a die-hard Montreal Canadiens fan, he drove friends and family to cheer for rival teams just so they could tease him when they lost. It was a unique pleasure to get under his skin.

Dave was all these things, but above all, he was a loving and dedicated father. His greatest love was his children, for whom he would sacrifice anything. He will always be remembered for his unconditional love, unending support and generosity.

Dave is survived by his loving partner Glenda; brothers Doug (Deb), and Brian (Karen); his children Darryl (Tiffany), Christal (Dan), Wesley, Nitachia (Serge), and Aaron; his step-sons Eric and Shane (Kristina) and his best friend Al. His cherished grandchildren included Brittany, Amber, Lincoln, Donovan, Isla, Yannick, Cora, and Adrien. His nephews and nieces Eric (Kristi), Steve (Jessie), Jeff (Lisa), Jessica (Jamie) and Trevor and the mother of his youngest children, Diane. The newest member of the family was his great-grandson Bentley.

Dave was predeceased by his parents Gerry and Isobel, his sister Cheryl, brother Don, grandson Skylar, and mother of his eldest children, Lise.

There will be no visitation or service. A celebration of life will be held in North Bay June 20, 2026. The location will be determined in the coming days.