Obituary of Dave Kinley

An Audio Version of Dave's Obituary May Be Listened to Here

February 26, 1960 – Calgary, Alberta

February 15, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

With heavy hearts, we mark the passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, David Thomas Kinley.

Dave is survived by his wife of 42 years, Shelley (née Smart), their sons, Devin (Nicole), Mason (Lani), and Regan (Emily); and a source of immense pride and joy to both him and Shelley, their grandchildren, Rylan, Cohen, William, Henderson, and Jackson.

Dave was born on February 26, 1960, and spent the first ten years of his life in Calgary. When his family moved out to Indus, Dave’s life changed. He found purpose in the country, tending to pigs, cattle, and above all, chickens. After graduating from Chestermere High School, he promptly pursued further education at SAIT, obtaining his Journeyman Certification as an electrician by the age of 21. Dave took pride in his work in the trades and eventually became a Master Electrician. Dave and Shelley met at work, and the rest they say is history. Always an entrepreneur at heart, Dave established his own company, later known as Concept Electric.

Dave was deeply committed to his community, dedicating himself to various initiatives and earning recognition as Volunteer of the Year for Rocky View County. Throughout the years, he wore many hats–coaching fastball, managing a slo-pitch team, playing hockey for the Indus Shot Hawks, and serving as a Director and President of the Bow Valley Agricultural Society (BVAS). Dave played a pivotal role in the construction of the Indus Recreation Center, where he later volunteered as a minor hockey coach, guiding each of his three sons along the way. Along with his family and friends, Dave enjoyed the tradition of cooking the Father’s Day community breakfast at Indus’ annual Junefest Celebration.

Beyond his local contributions, Dave actively engaged with organizations seeking to make a broader impact. He served as a director with the Calgary Construction Association (CCA), participated in the CCA's Youth Employment Program, and chaired the Alberta Construction Association (ACA). In 2016, Dave was honored as the Calgary Construction Association's Man of the Year.

Dave loved to travel with his family and friends, exploring over 50 countries and cultures alongside Shelley. Whether it was Mexico, Phoenix, or camping across Alberta and BC with his family, or venturing internationally, every trip made for limitless excitement. Annual trips with the CCA group and annual family weekends at the Rimrock Resort created cherished memories.

Dave possessed a captivating presence, with an infectious laugh and quiet charisma that drew people in. He was patient, kind, and gentlemanly, with an intelligent mind and a wealth of knowledge. He took pleasure in mentoring individuals from all walks of life, offering guidance and sponsorship without judgment. Always learning, over the last year he consulted on an app that connects tradespeople with employers and opportunities. Providing tools for the employee was always important to Dave.

Always loved and forever remembered.

Dave was predeceased by his parents, Harlin and Margaret Kinley; nephew Jesse Kinley, father-in-law Ernie Smart, and recently his brother Rick Kinley.

A service will be held for close family and friends.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to Bow Valley Agricultural Society, 225155A Range Road 281A, Indus, AB T1X 0H7, payment@indusrec.ca.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with David’s family here.

In living memory of David Kinley, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Deerfoot South, 12281 – 40th Street SE, Calgary, AB T2Z 4E6, Telephone: 403-203-0525.