Obituary of Kenneth David Bishop

It is with great sadness that the family of Kenneth David Bishop, beloved husband of Barbara Bishop, announces his passing on Monday, January 20, 2025, at the Saint John Regional Hospital.

Born on March 3, 1939, in Saint John, he was the son of the late Frederick and Dorothy (Coates) Bishop.

Dave began his working career at SMT in Saint John, where he met the love of his life, Barb. In 1961, he left SMT for Thornes, selling hardware to small businesses all over the Maritimes. He loved to tell stories of his days on the road, meeting customers and making lifelong friends. In 1964, he married Barb, and together they had two children, Michele and Darren who, along with his wife, were his pride and joy.

His lifelong dream was to start his own Home Hardware business, and in 1974, with his wife Barb by his side, he opened Kennebecasis Home Centre. Dave and Barb enjoyed many years working together and helping the community they loved grow. During their years as Home Hardware dealers, Dave and Barb made many friends and lasting memories travelling all over the world for exciting conventions. As the years went by, Dave helped his children, Michele and Darren, get started in businesses of their own.

Dave was a lifetime member of the Kinsman Club, past President of the Atlantic Building Supply Dealers Association, and a board member of the Canadian Business Development Corporation. He was always giving back to the industry he loved.

Dave was an avid salmon fisherman, and along with his wife Barb, loved spending his free time casting a line in the Miramichi River at his camp in Doaktown. He cherished sharing his passion for fishing with his children, grandchildren, and their spouses creating countless memories by the water. Dave also loved to play golf and enjoyed many years golfing with friends and family at Riverside and Hampton golf clubs. In 2019, at the age of 79, Dave was very proud to score his first hole-in-one!

In the last few years, Dave and Barb loved to play games together, playing endless games of Crib and Phase 10. They also enjoyed many games of Chase the Ace with their family. The stakes were always high at a loonie a game! Trying to get one up on Dave counting your score remained a constant challenge as his mind was like a computer. Dave and Barb also loved to do puzzles together. He always saved the last piece of each puzzle for Barb to place, as she was the piece that completed his heart.

Besides his wonderful wife, Dave is survived by his children; Michele MacDougall (Bill) of Hampton, and Darren Bishop (Krista) of Quispamsis, brothers; Bill of Rothesay, Donnie (Sandra) of Darlings Island, Mike (Sue) of Quispamsis, and Daryl (Karen) of Quispamsis, sisters; Betty Kimball of Quispamsis, Marilyn Fanjoy of Grand Bay-Westfield, and Carol Dixon (Malcolm) of Quispamsis, grandchildren; Jillian (Jack), Makayla (Eric), Andrew (Jayme), Taylor (Barry) brand new great granddaughter Isla and Devon (Shrystin); as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family. Dave loved every member of his large family with his whole heart. Over the Christmas holidays, while admitted to the hospital, Dave told his doctors and nurses that he had to be released to attend his much-loved annual Bishop Christmas party!

Besides his parents, Dave is predeceased by his brother Fred, and sister Joan.

Dave was truly a remarkable man whose kindness, strength, and unwavering positivity, touched everyone who knew him. He was the heart of his family – a loving husband, a wonderful father and the best Grampy and great Grampy. Whether offering a helping hand, sharing a laugh, or simply being there, Dave’s presence brought comfort and joy to those around him. Even in difficult times, he faced every challenge with strength and resilience, never once complaining. Dave will be deeply missed but the love and countless memories he leaves behind will be forever cherished.

Resting at Kennebecasis Community Funeral Home, 152 Pettingill Road, Quispamsis (506-849-2119) with visiting on Thursday, January 23 from 5-8 PM. A celebration of David’s life will be held at Kennebecasis Community Funeral Home Chapel, on Friday, January 24 at 11:00 AM. For those who wish, donations in memory of Dave can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, the Atlantic Salmon Museum or a charity of the donor’s choice.