Obituary

CHEYNE, Alexander Davidson –

Peacefully at Toronto Western Hospital with his family by his side after a one year battle with Cancer, on October 5th 2023 in his 85th year.  Beloved father of Leslie and son in law Darrell, cherished partner to Carolyn and treasured “Gramps” to his Bauer and Megan.  Favourite brother to his three sisters Lynda (Bob), Jessie (late Andy) and pre-deceased by Barbara (late Andy).   Sadly missed by many nieces, nephews and close friends.

After learning to fly in the Royal Canadian Air Force, Al had a fulfilling 30 year career as a pilot for Air Canada where he retired as a Captain and often said he had “the best job in the world”.  Al was an avid golfer and absolutely treasured his time golfing with his “Sunshine boys”.  Years were spent at his beloved cottage in Penetanguishene and many happy memories were made there.

Al’s grandchildren were his pride and joy and he was their biggest fan in life.  He loved watching their hockey, baseball and figure skating and was there for every Birthday, graduation, washer toss tournament and special event in their lives.  Al was the “apple” of his daughter’s eye and was an incredible role model, parent and friend and will be missed immensely and remembered always.  Al could often be heard telling his “piggy bank” theory where you have to "put something in the bank of life to get something out” and he sure lived by that theory.  He also often said that he had an amazing 85 years, did everything he wanted and didn’t regret a thing.

The family would like to thank the Doctor’s, nurses, PSW’s and especially nurse practitioner “Molly” (Molls) from both the Princess Margaret Hospital and the Toronto Western Hospital for the incredible care and attention during his final three weeks.  During the last year of fighting cancer he often said that he was so impressed with and thankful for everyone he dealt with whether it was during radiation, surgery, after care, physiotherapy or palliative care.  Our family is forever grateful to everyone for their loving attention and positivity.

Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held at the Shanty Bay Golf Club in Oro-Medonte on Sunday October 22nd 2023 from 230-5pm, where friends and family are welcome to come share stories and celebrate the amazing life of an incredible man.

Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Al are asked to consider The Hospital for Sick Kids.

Online condolences can be made at: https://www.cardinalfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/mr-alexander-al-davidson-cheyne/

Visitation

Date
October 22, 2023
Location
Shanty Bay Golf Club - Oro-Medonte
Time
02:30 PM - 05:00 PM

Service

Cremation

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October 17, 2023
Gord Leitch
I had the distinct pleasure of working with Captain Cheyne as a second officer on the B727, but sadly not as much as I would have liked; so many pilots bid to fly with him that only the most senior were lucky enough to have that privilege. Al brought a calm competence to the job which made every trip seem easy and enjoyable. He made each crewmember feel that their contribution was valued and appreciated, and yet seemed to consider himself the recipient of great fortune to have the job which he clearly loved. He was an exemplary captain and a role model by example to many – not just how to be the best pilot one could be, but to be the best person. Without question Al was one of the finest gentlemen I have ever met. He leaves the world a better place than he found it, and his influence will be felt for generations. Please accept my sincere condolences.
October 17, 2023
Leslie Woodley
Dad today is your 85th Birthday. We cannot believe you are gone. Thank you for 50 years of laughs, chats , dinners, trips, Birthdays, ball games, hockey games, skating competitions, Christmas celebrations, cottage fun, car rides, advice and a whole lot of amazing memories. Life will never be the same without you but I sure am thankful for the time we had!! Love you forever - Les
October 16, 2023
Carolyn Ostrowski
Dear Carolyn, my deepest condolences, Al was a kind gentleman and much admired by Bryan. May they both enjoy their lack of pain and rest from this life.
October 15, 2023
Al Penrose
Leslie, so sorry to hear this news. Out condolences to you all.
October 14, 2023
Jonathan Silver
Al, you were a great neighbor and an even kinder man. Sincere condolences to Carolyn and your family
October 13, 2023
Chuck Almasy
I had the pleasure of flying with Al back in the 70’s. He was a great pilot and a real gentleman. I looked forward to every cycle knowing that it was going to be an enjoyable one.. My sincere condolences to Family and Friends..He will be sadly missed by all who knew him… Chuck Florida
October 12, 2023
Brant Gulyes
I flew with Al in the late 1980s as his First Officer on the Boeing 727. Al was a terrific Captain - always calm, cool and measured. And as a man, a true gentleman - always thoughtful and caring. It was a pleasure to have known and worked with him. Al was a perfect example of what a man should be and also what a Captain should be.
October 12, 2023
Don McKay
May he Rest in Peace
October 12, 2023
Dennis Copley.
My sincere condolences to the family.I was very fortunate to fly with such a great pilot and gentleman.Have a good flight Al.
October 11, 2023
Brian Jenny Breken
You guys lost a great family leader , world lost a great man … and a favourite brother …). Be strong !