KNOX, Dale Alexander
July 26, 1939 – Caverhill, New Brunswick
December 29, 2023 – Calgary, Alberta
Our beloved husband, brother, father, grandfather and best friend, Dale Alexander Knox, passed away on December 29, 2023, at the age of 84 years in Calgary, Alberta.
He will be dearly missed by his wife Nancy, brother Delmus Knox, sister Nancy Hubley, daughters Susan Gratton and Sher Clain, grandchildren Charlotte, Blaise, Griffin, Jaxson and Karmen, and many nieces and nephews.
Dale was born on July 26, 1939 in Caverhill, New Brunswick to parents Hughenna and Lawrence Knox. He grew up on the family farm, learning early the importance of hard work, but also making time for hunting, fishing and shenanigans with big brother Del and little sister Nancy. His mother, Hughenna, was also his teacher at the local one room schoolhouse. Dale’s first job, at age 8, was to walk two miles to school on cold winter mornings to light the wood stove. In his final year of life, Dale spent many hours reminiscing with his “Best Friend” (grandson Griffin) about his days on the farm and the values he learned – honour, compassion, and love of family.
Education was a priority for all the Knox children. Dale studied Civil Engineering at the University of New Brunswick, earning his BSc. and P.Eng. in 1962. Always fascinated with infrastructure, Dale’s career designing municipal water and sewer systems took him to Newfoundland, Ontario, Alberta, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. He eventually founded his own consulting firm, Dale Knox Engineering, and was a respected member of the Nova Scotia Association of Professional Engineers.
Dale married his true love, Nancy Hamm, in 1978 and got a “package deal” with daughters Susan and Sheryl Ann. He moved his new family to Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, where they built a joyful life with a network of close friends and family, worship at Grace United Church, community service, bridge games, travel, and lots of golf. Dale delighted in his grandchildren and enjoyed big family trips to Mont Tremblant, the Grand Canyon and the Caribbean.
From their very first date, Nancy and Dale completed each other. Nancy was the party planner and dreamer, surrounding them with friends and fun. Dale was Nancy’s rock, infinitely kind and patient, steadfast and dependable, with an astonishing capacity for love. Although a quiet man, Dale had a dry wit that would crack us all up at the most unexpected times. He has left a legacy of love that will succeed him for many generations. We will miss him more than words can say.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be deeply appreciated.
3 Comments
Dear Nancy, Susan, Sher, and the entire Knox family,
It is with profound sadness that I extend my deepest condolences on the passing of Dale Alexander Knox. Dale was not just a father-in-law to me but also a remarkable individual whose presence touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
I also want to highlight Dale’s exceptional support for Charlotte and Blaise, Susan and my children, whom he embraced with unwavering commitment. His encouragement, love, and presence in their lives have left an indelible mark. Dale’s support extended beyond words; it was a guiding force that shaped the wonderful individuals they have become.
In this difficult time, may the cherished memories of Dale bring you comfort, and may the love and support of friends and family surround you. As we mourn the loss of a remarkable man, let us also celebrate the life he lived and the impact he had on us all.
3 Jan 24
Dear Nancy and family,
Our condolences on Dale’s passing. Each day we look out our kitchen window in Dartmouth overlooking your former back yard reflecting on our time together as neighbours.
In later years Grif and our son Adam became friends as they were classmates at school in Halifax. Dale was a great guy.
Scott, Rose-Marie, Adam and Colin Miniou
Nancy and Family:
Please accept our deepest sympathies. Dale was such a pleasant and friendly man. We enjoyed being your neighbours at the Woodbury in Dartmouth.
– Eva and Lester Hartling