Timothy Neal Woodward (7 February 1971 – 20 October 2024) passed away peacefully at home following a courageous battle with cancer.

Raised under the vast skies of Winnipeg, everything about Tim embodied his adventurous spirit and prairie-boy roots. His iconic look –a leather jacket with a worn denim vest thrown over the top- along with his work ethic and resilience defined who he was. Summers for the Woodward brothers (Tim & Wayne) were spent at Grandpa Woodward’s cabin on Madge Lake. A quaint lakeside abode crammed with family, fighting to use the bathroom while simultaneously enjoying the spoils of the lake; golfing, drinking, swimming, bonfires and Kanasta. Even in his youth, Tim’s unwavering sense of duty and quiet pride found expression in his dedication to the cabin’s upkeep. Whether mending, painting, or hauling wood, he approached every task with the same commitment that defined his character.

The same vast skies under which he was raised, and spent his summers, would later call to him professionally. Enamored by aviation, Tim enlisted in the RCAF in 1989 as an Aviation Technician. His skill and dedication earned him a spot on the Snowbird Air Demonstration Team, where he served for two years as a Safety Systems Specialist, proudly representing the 25th Anniversary Team. Captivated by the thrill of flight, Tim knew he was destined to become a pilot.

It was during his initial pilot training at the RCAF flight school in Southport, MB, that Tim locked eyes with his future wife, Shannon, while shotgunning a Guinness—upside down, hanging from a helicopter skid in the pilot’s Mess. It was, without a doubt, love at first sight for both of them.  Just as they worked side by side to complete flight training, they also began crafting a future built on mutual trust, support, and a shared vision. After their marriage in 2003, they were ‘winged’ together in 2004, and soon after, were posted together to 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron in Edmonton to fly Griffons. Tim’s impressive military career took him across this great country, allowing him to fulfil his dreams of flying nearly every day. Culminating in his promotion to Major and assumption of Officer Commanding (OC) Operational Training Flight in Gagetown, NB, Tim always balanced his commitment to service with his love of family beautifully. Tim and Shannon perfected the art of military moves. From Portage la Prairie to Edmonton, Fredericton to Winnipeg, Tim could orchestrate a house bugout and family travel plan with expertise. With Tim’s 2008 deployment to Afghanistan, followed by yet another move and a growing crew of little ones, it’s safe to say Tim knew that flexibility was not only the key to airpower, but also a happy life AND happy wife. He did everything with the grace of a seasoned father and efficiency of a honed war hero.

Tim was enterprising, ambitious, and an eternal optimist. The summers of his youth, and his strong relationship with his extended family shaped Tim’s appreciation for togetherness and adventure. These traits prepared him for his role as a devoted father, which was ultimately his favorite job. Whether it was time with Aline on the golf course perfecting her back swing, boys trips to hockey tournaments with Liam, or halibut fishing with Sidney, Tim’s children were his world. After 29 years of service to Canada, Tim bade farewell to the Air Force, returned his military kit and pick up his golf clubs.

True to form, Tim wasn’t idle for long after retirement. During the infamous Trailer Era, Tim, Shannon, their three young kids, and Poppy, lived in their travel trailer for nearly a year while building their dream home in North Saanich. During this time, the family forged memories,

laughter, friendships, and a uniquely blended family smell that Tim jokingly said permeated the walls. With the same dedication and focus he brought to everything, Tim spent evenings writing papers and studying as he earned his Masters Degree in Disaster and Emergency Management. The family home in North Saanich became Tim’s sanctuary. Tim and his family gathered there to enjoy his incredible cooking, or simply spend time watching a game on TV.  This same home that Tim built with love, also became the backdrop of his battle with cancer, and it was here, surrounded by loved ones, that he passed away peacefully.

Even during dark times in other people’s lives, Tim was able to see the forest through the trees.  An avid golfer, he spent many an afternoon on the fairways of Victoria’s finest Golf Courses.  Including the one within which he will now rest: Gorge Vale Golf Course. Tim is survived by his wife and life co-pilot Shannon, and three beautiful children, Aline, Liam and Sidney. A family service will occur on 7 February 2025 at God’s Acre Veteran Cemetery in Victoria, BC.

A Celebration of Life will be planned for Tim in the spring of 2025, with details forthcoming on social media.

Condolences may be offered to the family below.

McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com

 

  • Mike Bercier

    I always appreciated Tim’s zest for life. Rest in peace brother.

  • Greg Juurlink

    Tim will be missed greatly. He was a great person and I really enjoyed him as a flight commander and mentor. I’ll never forget him telling me “you’re not as bad as I’ve been briefed” hahaha. I was really happy he liked having me in his flight. He was a kind soul and clearly a devoted husband and father. He has left us way too soon. My condolences to Shannon, the kids and everyone who knew him.

  • Frank Tos

    Shannon and Family, so very sorry for your loss, Tim was a great guy, always down to earth and saying things just as they were, enjoyed my time working with him, sadly missed.
    Cheers Tim,

  • Kaylee Horn

    I was happy to have flown more than a few trips with you in the B412-CF at Portage as well as get my start in the CAF Flight Safety program. Your passing was most unexpected and hits hard, as we were less than a year apart in age.
    I feel for the family and selfishly rue that we will not get to fly together again.

  • kevin melvin

    R I P sir. 🙁

  • Amal and Alexio

    Our deepest condolences to all of you, as always we are here to support you with anything needed.

  • Darcey Lensen Stammers

    Worked with Tim in Moose Jaw, when he was a NCM. He was a great tech and always worked hard!!!

    Gone way too soon!!!! He will be missed!!

    Rest in Peace Tim!!

  • Kristi Rudolph

    We are so deeply sorry for your loss. Tim was not only a great pilot but a devoted family man. His memory will live on in all of us.
    Kristi, Tim, Sam & Zoe Rudolph

  • Robert Kamphuis

    Such a wonderful tribute. I knew Tim as a dedicated professional, a kind and generous person who made a positive impact on all who had the privilege to work with him. My thoughts are with Shannon, Aline, Liam and Sydney during this difficult time. Tim’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

  • Angela Court

    Shannon, Aline, Liam & Sidney,

    I’m so sorry you all lost him. He sounds amazing.

    May you be surrounded by love and support as you grieve. May his love, resilience, optimism, and memories live on in you all.

    My deepest sympathies to Wayne and all else who also grieve his loss.

  • Gerard Charlton

    A fitting tribute to a very honourable man. My condolences go out to Tim’s immediate and extended family.

  • Len Sherwood

    He was a fine man, a family man, happy smile, positive attitude that overcomes so many things. He is gone, but I can see that that positive attitude resonates through his kids; and it certainly makes me look at life a little bit differently now. More positively. Thank-you Tim.

    Love, Uncle Len

  • Norm Hanley

    You were a great man and held a quiet confidence. You supported those who were in need and inspired greatness in everyone who knew you. You will be greatly missed.

  • Vern Zelent

    Shannon and family…I am so sorry for your loss. This tribute gave us a little insight into the amazing person Tim was. Thinking of you all. Sincerely Vern

  • Mackenzie & Karl

    Shannon,
    Our most sincere and heartfelt condolences for the loss of the other half of your heart. We cannot express the pain we felt when we found out, but know (and I know you know) that we will be here for you now and forever, whatever you need. Sending you all our love and positive thoughts.
    Love Mac, Karl, Alex & Zack
    Xoxox

  • Chris and Gena Finnigan

    Shannon and family,

    Our sincere condolences to all of you during this very difficult time. Another brother that went way before his time. Godspeed Tim!

  • Kip Cormier

    I am fortunate enough to say Tim and Shannon were the last two Majors I worked with. Note I did not say “under” as both never made me feel anything but a peer. I was Tim’s Flt WO with OTF, and then Shannon’s Ops Sgt/Maj in Gagetown.
    I am also probably in the unique position being close to both of them at work of being able to say I have never been so impressed with two people that could separate personal and professional in their lives, but still show the love and respect for each other, even thru disagreements, and that speaks volumes on their character and respect for not only each other, but those around them.
    I was truly saddened at his passing, and think of him often. My heart goes out to Shannon and the kids, his love for them was truly admirable and I am sure is missed every second of the day.
    Blue skies my friend, you’ve earned them

  • Nada Sarkis and Malik Williams

    Shannon and Liam,
    Malik and I were truly saddened by the news of Tim’s passing. Hang on to the good memories will make him present always in your hearts.
    Take good care.
    Nada and Malik

  • Tina Powers

    Shannon, I couldn’t have described this man that stole your heart any better. He was amazing and I’m so sorry for your family’s loss. He will live on with you and the kiddos.

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