Obituaries

BOCKING, Alfred

With great sadness, we announce the passing of Group Captain Alfred (Al) Bocking, on 24 January 2009 at the age of 93.

Al was predeceased by his wife, Mabel, daughter Miranda and son Brian. He will be deeply missed by his daughter, Candy Van Hees (Dirk), his son Pat (Denise), and his grandchildren, Mark, Todd and Christie Van Hees and Leighton and Taya Bocking and his great grandchildren.

It was in 1933 that Al first obtained his "Pilot's Certificate of Flying Machines". He went on to become a member of the R.A.F. from 1935-1944 and a member of the R.C.A.F. from 1944-1965. Al was an accomplished fighter pilot. He fought for our freedom during WWII and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross with Bar. He was the Cdn. Deputy Commander of NORAD during the Cuban Missile Crisis and he was the 1st Cdn. to fly at a speed greater than twice the speed of sound (Mach 2). At the time of his retirement in 1965, he was qualified to fly 64 different types of "flying machines". Rest in peace "Fly Boy".

There will be no service at Al's request.

Should family and friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to KGH.

A special "thank you" to Dr. Obedkoff and the wonderful nursing staff at KGH. And a fond farewell to all of his friends at Lakeshore Place.

Condolence Messages

Jan 29, 2009
Candy, Dirk and family,

Our thoughts are with all of your family at this sad time. You helped Al to live such a long and rich life. I know you miss him deeply. Hold those memories close, in time they will bring smiles.

Nick, Sue and family
Jan 28, 2009
Thinking of all the Bocking family at this sad time.

Al was a fun loving and sweet man. Candy, you have been a wonderful and caring daughter to him. He is at peace.

Love to all,

Corry
Jan 27, 2009
Very sorry to hear about your Dad Candy. He was amazing and such a history.

Take care,

Louise
Jan 27, 2009
You know you are in my thoughts. Wish I was closer to give you all huge hugs. I understand Candy and Dirk, that you're heading to Hawaii once everything has calmed down. I'm sorry you won't be joining us yet so glad you're going to get away.

Much love,

Patti