My grandfather, Dean H. Dover, served in the RCAF during World War II as a Spitfire pilot and squadron leader (412 Spitfire Squadron Commander). He was a pilot instructor and staff officer with 442 Squadron in 1944, then Squadron Leader (412 Squadron) from August 1944 to January 1945. He flew more than 100 flights over various parts of Europe (France, UK, Netherlands, etc.), and was recognized for his devotion to duty and ability to lead. He led his squadron at least 20 times over France with great success and, in addition to helping destroy numerous enemy aircraft, personally shot down two in combat, well within enemy-occupied territory.
After leaving the RCAF at the end of the Second World War, he went into business for over 40 years. He passed away peacefully at his home in London on June 2, 2000. He will always be remembered as a loving grandfather and nature lover.