It is with the deepest sadness and broken hearts, we announce the passing of Dave MacMillan on August 15, 2024, at the age of 68.

Dave was the much loved husband of Cathy (née Draycott) for 39 years and the loved father of Lindsay and Nick. Son of the late Emerson and Anna Attje MacMillan, brother to John (Seran) and Anna Idell (Dave). Son-in-law of Fred Draycott and the late Irene Draycott, brother-in-law to Kelly Draycott (Angie), and family Aaran Leonard and Parker Draycott. He was also much loved as an ‘honorary’ grandson by the late Herman and Vera Madigan, Cathy’s maternal grandparents. He will be fondly remembered by his nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family and friends. Dave will also be missed by the family cats, Jack, ZeeZee and Duffy. Dave will be also be missed by friends and all those who knew him in the Parry Sound community.

As a child, Dave spent cherished summer months at the family cottage on Rose Island. He met Cathy at university, and together they shared a love for Georgian Bay, eventually making Parry Sound their permanent home in the mid ’80s. As a young man, Dave would watch the big, shiny rigs, all decked out with lights and chrome, heading out on the road to the Southwest U.S. Coast. He knew right then that one day, that's exactly what he wanted to do. (Quite a contrast from the original plan to become a lawyer.)

Dave was a 50-year veteran of the trucking industry, with over 5 million miles behind him—fulfilling that childhood dream. In the late '90s, he co-owned a trucking company with Cathy. After easing into semi-retirement, Dave, Cathy, and eventually their son Nick, founded the highly popular YouTube channel, Smart Trucking, dedicated to mentoring and supporting truck drivers. Through thousands of videos, live streams, blog posts, interviews, articles, and newsletters, Dave became a powerful advocate for professional truckers, tackling issues like driver pay, safety, and working conditions. His voice was respected across the industry, earning him the title of ‘Voice of the Trucker.’ He wasn’t afraid to address contentious topics others shied away from, and he was passionate about improving the trucking industry for drivers everywhere. Dave believed that being a professional truck driver was a privilege and reminded his trucker community of the immense responsibility that comes with the role. His impact extended globally, touching the lives of drivers in Canada, the U.S., Australia, New Zealand, Japan, the U.K., Europe, Norway, Sweden, Alaska, Hawaii, and beyond. He deeply cared for the well-being of each and every truck driver. A lasting tradition of Smart Trucking is the phrase as voted by the online Smart Trucking Community: “Stay safe. Keep the rubber side down, and I’ll catch you on the backhaul.” This phrase will continue to resonate with his trucking community, symbolizing his dedication to the safety and well-being of truck drivers.

Dave will be deeply missed by the entire Smart Trucking Community, including YouTube subscribers, members, and especially those from the regular live streams. His loss will be felt by the millions of online supporters, as well as by all who knew him from his many years in the trucking industry.

A private service will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Georgian Bay Biosphere, American Holistic Veterinary Medical Foundation, Truckers Against Trafficking (There’s also free training for anyone to recognize trafficking) or the Canadian Cancer Society.

Condolences

Condolences to the family. RIP Loved his videos about trucking.

I'm sad for you Catherine. Dave was an integral part of the whole trucking community. He'll be sorely missed.

Dave’s videos helped me so much in starting my career as a truck driver. His information will continue to provide truck drivers with knowledge and advice for many, many years to come.

My deepest condolences and prayers to Dave's family and friends

Thank you for all of your years of putting on an amazing life feed every week for us. Dave was a staple of our community. They don't build truckers like him anymore . He will be missed 🙏

Deepest condolences to family and friends. I enjoyed all his posts on his channel on Facebook Smart trucking. He will be missed. Rest In Peace.

Cathy, Lindsay, and Nick,

We are thinking of you during this difficult time! May you find comfort in good memories!

My heart is broken. A sad day for trucking for sure. I for one, will not forget Dave. Smart Trucking is a great program. I hope it continues for a long time. I am sure he is trucking for Jesus now. We will see ole Dave on the back haul.

My sincere condolences to the family of Dave MacMillan.

Saddened to hear the passing of Dave. I really enjoyed watching his video's and listening to his stories. Gob bless.

I shared the “Big Roads” with “Diesel Dave” many times and years in the 90’s and beyond. He always had his CB on and the conversation was always awesome. The Trucking Industry has lost someone who believed in it, and knew how abused drivers have been treated since the “De-Reg”. Love you “Diesel Dave” and Thanks for the “Miles and the Memories”. Never Forgotten by Me”.

During this difficult time, my thoughts and prayers are with Dave's family. I hope they find solace in the love they shared with him and the incredible influence he had on others. Though his presence will be greatly missed, his spirit will remain a guiding light for all those he mentored and inspired.

RIP Dave. Your contributions and hard work are an example to many. I watched your content and related to it. It allowed me to go back to old school and remember the days when we had a very proud group of drivers. Ride on pal. I will grab a few gears for you tonight!

He seemed like such a cool guy. I will miss his awesome knowledge that he gave with sincerity. You could clearly see that he loved his trucking life and to share. I'm sure you, the family, will miss him more than his trucking family.
RIP

My condolences and prayers to the family and to the Smart Trucking family as well. There will never be another trucker like Dave MacMillan. Godspeed brother!

Sorry for your loss. The information from his YouTube videos put me on a good path to starting out in my second career as a truck driver. God bless.

Truckers for Safer Highways would like to send our most Heartfelt condolences to Dave's Family. Dave was an incredible voice for truck drivers. Many drivers were able to benefit from the knowledge Dave shared. The positive mark Dave left on drivers and the trucking industry cannot be overstated! Thank you Dave, and thank you to his family for sharing him with us for as long as you did. Our thoughts are with you.

Dave will be missed by drivers around the country. Old school drivers felt like we knew him ….like we were sitting at the truck stop eating dinner like we did back in the day, y’all remember, be like 15-20 drivers at one big long table, telling stories and listening to each other…..then everybody going on their way…..From one old school driver to another.

RIP Driver. Rest easy, Dave…. we will take it from here! Thank you for your service and your 4-5 million miles manning the road. My condolences to Dave's family and friends.

My condolences to your family. RIP Dave.
You will be missed by many.

Deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Dave, a dedicated and hardworking individual who kept our roads moving. Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones during this difficult time. May fond memories of Dave’s adventurous spirit, work ethic, and kindness bring comfort. Rest in peace, Dave. Your legacy rides on.

What a great man. He will be missed by all of us. So sorry for your loss.

My condolences to all his family, he will be missed by all.

The most sincere regards to Dave’s family, friends, and the entire trucking community for this profound loss. As a class 1 driver, I always enjoyed hearing his great insight in regards to trucking. You really noted his genuine concern for the profession of the trucking industry. I feel like the world is a lessor place with him gone. See you on the heavenly highway friend.

You will forever be a legend in the eyes of truckers everywhere. Now you’re hauling for the big man upstairs brother.

My condolences. As a driver, I loved his videos and my favorite part of every video was the stories he would tell. He will be missed.

Dave's passion and dedication will forever live on in and through all of us. My sincerest condolences to your wife, children, and family. Rest Well Dave.
See you on the back haul...

Prayers for you and family. You touched many as an educator and advocate for truck drivers. “Stay safe, Keep the rubber side down, and I will see you on the back haul”. In heaven.

Richard Boblitz
You tube subscriber

Dave taught me so very much. Thank you for everything.

My heartfelt condolences go out to Dave's family and friends.

Dave was a good friend for many years. He was a man to run the road with. May he rest in the arms of our Lord Jesus for eternity.

I share my deepest condolences to the family and all who knew him as a fellow truck driver, and a driver trainer. I would often point trainees to his videos about the industry. Dave was a great advocate and the industry will miss him greatly. I'm sorry for his family's loss. From everything I've heard about him, it is a tremendous loss to his family, and I can only hope that they find some solace in the knowledge that he impacted so many lives around the world, and that his legacy will live on.

Rest in peace dave. Thank you for everything you've done for our industry and everything you've taught us. We will see you on the backhaul, driver.

Aka Snake 🐍 here otr 🚛 Trucker 10+ years I'm deeply hurt by finding out he passed away. Dave was always my favorite to watch on YouTube and he taught me lot of tips and tricks from his videos. It's never easy loosing a fellow friend, family member, father, or brother. I know he would want his memory to go on! You keep that hammer down Dave. He will truly be missed!

Sad to hear this just now.
Dave will be missed.

You have our deepest condolences. The Burwell family (3 generations of truckers) also send prayers of healing and comfort. I want to say it was Dave who inspired me to continue in the Trucking Industry. The videos and blogs made me realize that we truckers weren’t completely alone in wanting to be treated more fairly, as well as getting the deserved pay. This is a huge loss for ALL OF US. May he ride the highways of Heaven, watching over you always.
10-4 Good Buddy!

I'm Ryan.
The guy who runs the page TruckerMemes. My deepest condolences to Dave's family for their lost.
When I started driving 8 years ago, I leaned on Dave's videos to help me speed up my learning curve. I, and many of the newer drivers in the past 5 to 8 years, are ahead of the learning curve for someone because Dave was generous in his wisdom and knowledge.
Rest easy Dave.
Your shift is over.

Dave, your videos have helped me as a driver a lot. I'ma miss you big time.

Thank you for advocating for truckers Dave and thank you for the wealth of knowledge and information that you were willing to share with the trucking world. Thank you for being a guide for new truckers to find their way in the crooked trucking industry. “Keep the rubber side down, I’ll see ya on the back haul.”

This dude helped so many people. RIP.

Cathy, Lindsay and Nick,

So sorry to hear this news!
My thoughts are with you!

Anthony Geroux

Dave was a beloved and respected brother to all Truckers. My prayers to all his family and friends. - Doug in Iowa

Dave got me into trucking, and has inspired me to work on becoming an owner-operator. I'd often listen to his videos when on the road. Even not ever meeting the man this news is a gut punch.

Keep it shinny side up rubber side down, Don your final backhaul Dave.

Hello fellow truckers, my name is Isaac age 28. I've been a long term subscriber to smart trucking and enjoyed listening to what Dave has said. He inspired me to get my cdl and have been trucking for over a year now. His message has always been one of fact and has taught me what to do in scary situations it hurts me to see another fellow trucker pass. I cant imagine what kind of grief your going through. But I can imagine its not easy. Loosing someone like that is definitely something you cant shake easy. He had such a great spirit and made a real difference. I've been thinking about this for the past few days and being single and childless and having little support from family he has been a way for me to feel like there is someone out there who cares. He in a small sort made me feel like he was a uncle in sorts. I'm wishing you all my condolences. I feel some loss too. God bless
-Isaac

Dave’s videos kept me out of trouble and away from the scams in my transportation career. I owe my livelihood to his sound advice. I offer Cathy, Nick, and the rest of his surviving family my sincere sympathies.

So sorry for your loss. I spent plenty of 10 and 34hr breaks watching those very informative videos. Dave, you will be missed and you touched the hearts of many.

I learned so much from Dave when I started trucking 3 years ago. Thank you for looking out for us truckers when no one else would. You will be missed by many.

Keep the shiny side up, and I'll hopefully see you on the backhaul one day.

My family has been in trucking 100 years and my fore fathers taught me many things. I stumbled across Dave's videos by accident, but I'm proud to say that he taught me and many other, so much more. He will be greatly missed. May he keep the rubber side down wherever he is now. I hope ya'll know many hearts are with you.

I can't believe that I have lost one of my mentors. I'm at a loss for words. Running California with Dave was a true honor. I learned a lot. I'm so sorry Cathy. Hard to believe.

In my darkest days on the road, you have always shown true to giving me my direction to continue on. Rest easy, the world is a little more different without you.

I never knew Dave personally, but felt like I did. I started Trucking 10 years ago and from the beginning, I found his videos and learned so much from them. He's helped a ton of people out and was pretty much the only internet trucker, I found, who gave people solid advice.

Prayers for this loss. Dave will be missed. He gave great advice to many truckers all around the world. I know I will miss watching. This is another truck driver that will miss him. RIP my brother truckdriver.

Thank you for all your stories you shared. You were a great storyteller and a wise teacher. You'll be missed. Rest in peace brother. 🕊

I'm sorry to hear of his passing. I have watched many of his videos deciding if I wanted to join the trucking industry and use them to learn after I started my OTR career. I hope that I will be able to continue to watch past episodes as he was a great teacher. He will be missed.

Mes condoléances à la famille et amis. Sans connaître personnellement ce MONSIEUR. Je me souviendrai longtemps encore d,avoir eu la chance de regarder ces capsules.

This makes me so sad! His videos have taught me so much in trucking. I pray for you Dave and your beloved family!

Shalom Aleichem. Even though I'm a retired mechanic / OTR truck driver I enjoyed his advice to ALL truckers young an old, retired or still active, local or OTR, company driver or independent. I offer my condolences to his family. "And YaHuah shall wipe every tear from their eyes, and there shall be no more death, nor mourning, nor crying. And there shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away." -- Hazon (Revelation) 21:4
Ratson haba b'shem YaHuah

I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing and I hope someone gains wisdom from his videos and comments about the trucking industry. I’m one of the old school truck drivers as he was. I loved my time at the wheel as he did also. We could relate on so many things about the industry. He will be missed for sure. Ain’t too many of us left from the great days of trucking . Dave was a true knight of the highway RIP DRIVER

I am very sorry for your loss, I never met Dave while on the road, but I am saddened by the loss of a Real Old School Trucker

Rest in peace Dave, I found you on YouTube just before I retired after 40+ years of driving. I watched though my driving days were finished because you always had good information and interesting stories. Blessings to your family I’m sorry for the void in your lives that can’t be filled.

My condolences on the loss of an amazing man. Even through his youtube videos you could feel the warmth from the light this man cast in everyones lives. He will be greatly missed.

(Retired trucker) keep your eyes on the road, hands on the wheel,and your heart on going home .prayers for your family my friend.
Ronnie Taylor

Hello Cathy, I e-mailed you earlier but I wanted to pay my respects on here to Dave, you and the rest of the family. The way I saw Dave through my own eyes was that he was not only the last of the old hands that are still out here but a modern Phantom 309. I learned so much from him whether it was his you tube videos, podcasts, shorts and articles as well. The way he conducted himself and just his overall character is what I loved about him. He loved Truckers from all over the world and was curious as to how their Trucking Industry was both similar and different to ours. That’s what made him great imo. May his memory be eternal as he rests with God and the Saints. We’ll take it from here Dave and I have a feeling your spirit will be with me when I fire up my Truck and I’m on a backhaul.

Words cannot express what he did for truckers and the industry, he will be sorely missed, and the impact he made will live on forever

My deepest sympathies to Cathy, Nick, and Lindsay. Dave was a great friend and mentor to me during his time hosting the Smart Trucking live chats. Every Wednesday we would gather for an hour of fun and fellowship. Cat and Nick would always make it interesting as well. Great times. I will miss Dave greatly and I will miss his friendship even more. Rest in Peace Big Strapper. I’ll see you on the backhaul. Scott/SoCalSandman780

I got my CDL in 2017 and Dave’s videos helped me learn so much and helped me feel more confident and comfortable driving trucks in my first few years of driving. My condolences to the family.

Man I’m at a loss for words Dave taught me so much even though I never Met him in person he was a huge inspiration and mentor to so many aspiring drivers he would tell you like it is and how it should be and I think we all loved him for that he will be missed Cathy and Nick please be strong in this trying time Dave will see you on the back haul

As a 76 year old non-trucker, I have enjoyed Dave's advice to real CDL holders here in America on YouTube. Dave will be missed. In high school, I was considering being a trucker. But my guidance counselor talked me out of it. It's a tough job requiring tough men (women).

This makes me very sad he's had a tremendous impact on my life as a truck driver. Rest easy dear brother we've got it from here

One of my favorite YouTubers when I started out trucking he'll be missed

I never met Dave in person but talked many times on radio and internet. I didn't always agree with his opinion but I always respected it. I retired in 2022 with 5 plus million miles behind me. His voice was always respected in the trucking world and his knowledge listened to. Rest in piece Driver, your shift is over.

Rest in peace Dave. When I was a rookie trucker you were a veteran I knew I could trust advice from. God bless you and your family!

Dave, you were a true blessing to the industry, you touch so many. I’m gonna miss you driver. We were all only here for a short time. May you rest in peace brother. Cathy my condolences to you and your family, my God bless comfort and keep you through this difficult time.🌺🌺🌺🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

My condolences to your family, Dave's passing is a huge loss to the trucking community. Praying for you and praying that God will take care of you and Dave.

You Will be missed Dave I loved watching your channel

I am sorry to hear that Dave has passed away. I am very thankful for all his wit, wisdom, and encouragement to all of us fellow truck drivers. God bless his family and friends with peace and comfort during this time. In honor of Dave let us do our best to keep the roads safe out there. RIP Dave

So sorry to hear this news. Rest in peace driver.

When I got out of CDL school I was assigned a trainer from my company but my real trainer was you. You taught me more in your YouTube videos than anyone in this industry. On those long 34 hour resets parked at a a pilot or TA you kept me company and and helped keep the homesickness at bay. Tales of the lettuce king and the great old days of trucking enthralled me. You were a friend to me, a mentor and a guide through this shady indusrty. I owe you a debt of gratitute that cant be repaid and weve never even met. Rest easy brother knowing you have reached an entire generation of drivers who will keep your memory and teachings alive. I'll do my best to pay it forward and I'll make sure I keep the rubber side down. Thanks Dave

God Bless and Thank you David . 🙏

My condolences to the MacMillan family. As a fairly new driver in the industry I had my struggles, but with Dave's tips, tricks & advice I have gotten a little better. For that I thank you Dave. May you rest in peace & may God bless your family.

May your family find comfort in the knowledge that Dave touched so many lives, and made a lasting I, positive mpact on the trucking community via your Smart Trucking YouTube channel. He's on the Big Backhaul now -73's from "Pepsi"

💐RIP Dave 💐 my 18 Wheel brother I’ll see you on the open road in heaven! Thank you to his family for supporting him! Truckers won’t be great without family hauling with us!💪🏼

It's a very sad day for us seasoned drivers to lose a brother in arms. My deepest condolences to Cathy and the family. RIP Dave, we'll take her from here my friend.

As a young (34) long haul truck driver in Brazil, I will always take into account Mr. Dave's wisdom. Is something very important to me and to our fellows. "And remember: nobody ever died by descending a hill too slow". Thanks for all, dear Dave. Rest in peace! God bless!

I remember watching Dave's videos as a new driver. It helped me a lot throughout my career and I still have days where if I'm stuck I'll have a flashback to one of Dave's videos to help me through it. You will be missed Dave, I hope you're trucking up in heaven. You were a great man and a legend. May god bless his soul.

Dear Cathy and family, I would just like to send my condolences during this tough time. I am deeply saddened by the death of Dave. Before i myself got into trucking I knew in my heart that that this was what I wanted to do but I was told by many that I couldn’t do it or that I should consider a different career, but when I used to watch videos of your husband I felt inspired seeing him drive around in that big peterbuilt and it gave me the confidence to step out into the unknown and do what I felt in my heart. I will always remember the many things that I learned from him such as tips about being safe, and how to deal with difficult situations as well as many other things. You will be missed by many Dave, may you rest in peace, and I will see you on the backhaul.

You are never too old to learn in the trucking industry and Dave was a big part of that the videos I watched over the years has made me a better driver and to become more knowledgeable in the trucking industry thank you Dave for your hard work and your dedication for all truck drivers I will miss you you will always be in my heart as a teacher may God bless the family rest in peace Big Dave remember Trucking family as Dave always said stay safe keep the rubber side down I'll see you on the back hall

Back in 2021 I had trouble backing a trailer when I first started and I was frustrated I couldn't get it, until I looked on YouTube and found Dave, ever sense then I enjoyed watching him videos. I will miss you, hope your smiling on heavens hwy

Wishing you peace

Taught me more about trucking then Any school or company ever bothered a real gear jammer. Your a real one Dave rest easy man.

My deepest condolences to the family. When I first got my CDL back in 2018 I found the Smart Trucking channel and I credit a great amount of my knowledge and skill to the things I learned there. So many things that no trainers taught I learned from Dave. The industry really lost a great mentor here, thank you for everything. Again so sorry for your loss, we’ll see you on the backhaul

Thank you for being a great mentor and helping me with the videos you have posted over the years. I will remember your advice.

RIP Dave, YT has lost a legend. Over 5 million miles driven is a lot of freight delivered, truck drivers move the nation and no one can say he didn't do his part. Condolences to the family. Prayers to all.

So sorry to hear about Dave's passing. I loved watching him and hearing his stories. RIP Dave.

Dear Dave, You will be missed by the entire Driver Community 😢 May your soul Rest in Pease. AMEN 🙏

My deepest heart felt condolences to you and your family I never met Dave but cheated with him on YouTube a few times and I will miss him dearly I know it's losing someone close I too have been there a few times when my grand parents passed away I know he is in a better place

Dave will be sorely missed. I greatly appreciated his knowledge and high level of professionalism mixed in with a sense of humor. There was never time when I didn’t come away from his videos without learning something about our industry. Hope to see him in the new world. Until then, I’ll keep enjoying his videos.

So sorry to hear about your loss. Dave was a good man and an asset to the communities he served, as a 35 year veteran of driving I agreed with most everything that he said and have sent many rookie drivers to his channel. The big strapper will be greatly missed in the trucking industry. Roll on Dave and keep the shiny side up.

RIP Dave , prayers to your family & friends. Dave is a spirit now, he can travel anywhere with a blink of a eye.

I was never a trucker but I loved watching Dave in his videos and seeing the cool trucks and watching the how-to videos, even if I wasn’t going to do it myself, and I enjoyed the insight he gave to the trucking industry to outsiders like me. I also just liked listening to him talk; he had this rich and powerful tone in his voice, and he had so many stories to tell. We the YouTube community will miss you and your stories, Dave. My condolences to his family, friends, and all those who knew him.

I learned more from sensi Dave than any truck driving school. He will be sorely missed. RIP BROTHER.

It's funny how you come to feel you know someone as they become a regular influence in your life. I guess Dave was one of the people I just felt comfortable listening and watching. We both had a love of the trucks long before we were old enough to drive. A true Professional will always stand above the crowd! Dave was one of these Drivers. Our industry is in free fall from yet another loss of a another Professional! To Dave's family, I offer my sincere condolences! I hope you're able to continue with the channel, it truly has made a difference! From one old Canadian Trucker to another, I offer the Trucker wave, the light flash to let you know you're clear and to "back out of it" to give you an out if it appears you're getting into trouble. Thanks Dave! Rest in peace my friend! 10-4 out.

My deepest condolences over the past years I enjoyed Dave’s videos for his good advise for other drivers out there very wise he was most definitely a driver I sure wish I could’ve met in person and have a coffee and good chat with. Sadly I will miss Dave God’s strength to his family and friends

Rest easy big guy...

In an industry that seemed like nobody cared about anymore it was nice to hear from a guy 👦 who actually cared about informing & educating drivers & more importantly offering his knowledge & experience basically for free to anyone who wanted to learn. Great 👍 stories & memories & always informative & fun. They don't make drivers like Dave anymore. It would have been great to have met him. RIP 🙏 best wishes to his family. I hope the channel will continue. Rob Armstrong Lumper --

I’m very sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. Prayers for you all. I’ve been watching Dave since 2014. He’s the most influential public trucker we have. I couldn’t thank him or his family enough for sharing him with us.

Hello Cathy and Lindsay, I hope you find some peaceful blessings and comfort Through this very difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you both. 🙏 so sorry. 😞. Kerrie. 💔

Just wanted to say thank you for all the knowledge put out there for the world to see. Made a big POSITIVE impact to me and many others as well. Sending prayers and condolences to the family...

Thanks for all the tips Dave! You will be missed…My deepest condolences 💐 Keep trucking on to Heaven

I am pretty sure i might of seen Dave in my travels as a driver possibly. Definitely loved his videos and like it is attitude . He will be Missed

Thoughts Prayers sympathy and condolences go out to Daves family and friends did watch Daves videos and i drove for almost 30yrs primarily local dont some OTR but i felt like i was happier being a local driver Dave gave us truckers great news and advice he wiil be dearly missed by all of us do one day Dave we will all see you on the back haul on the other side thanks for all you done for us truck drivers best sincerest wishes to all of you stay safe and take care.

Rock the heavens Driver🕊 Learned alot from your videos. You definitely will be missed. Sending condolences 🙏 to the family.

RiP Brother of trucking. You will be missed. My condolences and prayers 🙏 😢 ❤️ and love for your family. I did have the pleasure to meet Dave one time . Was a great guy. Friendly and Simple person. . Much love to all family members .YOU WILL BE MISSED Dave.....

To the family of Dave MacMillan, I want to express my deepest condolences to you during this difficult time. Dave was a tremendous influence on the trucking community, and his hard work and dedication to educating young and upcoming drivers did not go unnoticed. Through his YouTube channel and efforts, he imparted knowledge and experience that have positively impacted so many. His contributions to the industry will live on, and his memory will continue to inspire the next generation of truckers. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Dave’s legacy is one of strength, guidance, and generosity, and he will be missed greatly. With deepest sympathy, Marvin Willis

RIP MY FRIEND. !! I AM SO SADDENED TO HEAR THIS. WILL BE DEARLY MISSED.

My sincere condolences to the family and friends of Dave. He was an inspiration to all professional drivers by sharing his knowledge of the industry.

Dear Dave, You have given us a lot of insight on how you lived your life. Shared many stories and insights for new truckers and old! Even for me, a trucker from Holland. You have given me a lot of knowledge that I am happy to pass along. To Dave's friends and family, I wish you all the best of luck and love during these hard times of grief. May you find a way to find peace and solidarity. Sweet Dave, May your soul rest in peace,
May your stories live on forever, May we cherish your memories with the many that we can pass them through. Your kind soul shall be greatly missed. With love, from The Netherlands, Stephan.

R.I.P My brother. May the Lord keep and bless you. Till we meet on that golden highway.

Keep on trucking, 🌹❤️

So sorry to hear of Daves passing. His family and friends are in my thoughts and prayers. Wish I could have known him personally. 🙏🙏🙏🙏

I'm not actually a truck driver, I just watched his videos cause I found them interesting and wanted to learn a bit about trucking. Rest in peace, Dave.

I'm a 34 year veteran of the road and I've only recently come across Dave's videos. I could tell he knew his stuff and he had a really good take on everything. He seemed like a natural in front of the camera and really enjoyed passing along his 50 years of knowledge. My heartfelt condolences go out to Cathy, Nick and his entire family. I didn't know he lived in Parry Sound, but I guessed he lived there. Catch you on the rewind driver. Donald (Highliner) Doan

As a Class B CDL driver, I've also profited from Dave's insight into safety and his promotion of driver professionalism. I'm just one of a long line of folks who'll miss him...and also his "war stories."

To the family and friends of Dave, my sincere condolences go out to each of you all, I'm a 2nd generation teuck driver with 24 years and watching Dave's video's is a reminder of why I got into this industry he will be missed by all. May God bring peace and comfort to each of you through this difficult time.

Thank you for sharing, teaching and standing up for all of us Truckers out here. Old and young. We Love You and we'll all be missing you.

Praying for you and your family 🙏 Dave was and always will be be a great mentor and a true Trucking Hero!

Another Brother of the Highway gone way too young. Rest easy driver.

Don't cry because it's over, Smile because it happened. The legend has told so many tales, now it is us who pass on the tale of the legend.

My heartfelt condolences. Dave was truly an advocate for the little guy. Keep on truckin, Dave.

GOD CALLED YOU TO EDUCATE OTHERS IN OUR INDUSTRY YOU FULLFILLED YOUR TASK RIP SIR

The world has indeed become a darker place with the loss of such a great man. We can all take heart however, that his wisdom will live on for all of us, and his words will be heard by generations going forward. He will continue to teach and inspire truck drivers everywhere, and hopefully they will take up his fight for the industry and the good people within it. May you find your way to the halls of your fathers and stand proudly before them, Dave. You will be dearly missed.

I am so very sorry to hear about his passing. I watched him every week on YouTube . He was a good man and will be missed.

I found Dave's channel years before I started driving professionally. I learned so much from him. Because of the knowledge he shared, so many older truckers would tell me I didn't sound like a rookie when I talked with them. My trainer at my first company was a "Super Trucker" if there ever was one. All he cared about was miles. I never considered him my trainer. I always saw Dave as my real trainer. Thanks to his mentorship, I made it through my first year safely. I'm no longer a trucker, I now drive a school bus, but I still use the lessons Dave taught me while I drive that big yellow bus.

My prayers are with your family during this difficult time and continually. Dave had a monumental impact on many people down through the years And he will be greatly missed. He will live on in the lives of his loved ones and through all of the people he has inspired and helped to accomplish wonderful things in the trucking industry and beyond. Dedicated Absolutely Victorious in his Endeavors Thank you forever and God bless.

Thank you Dave for all the advice over the years God Bless him and his family!

R.I.P thank you for your knowledge and time given to truckers .

Came for the trucking, stayed for his sense of humor, the big highway in the sky must be beautiful and zero potholes

I wouldn't have been able to enter the trucking industry with the confidence and knowledge needed to succeed without the input of Dave and the Smart Trucking community. This man helped me find my success in trucking and improve my family's future. I'm sure that his sage advice, insights, and love for his fellow drivers has helped many people like myself. I extend my gratitude to his family from my own, and share in their sadness at hearing of his passing. Rest assured he will be remembered with reverence by the many lives he has touched in our community across the world. Our hearts are with you.

Sad to read about Dave's passing. Sincere condolences to family, friends and all people impacted.

Condolences to Dave’s family, I know the pain of losing him must be overwhelming. So many of us out here have an aching heart. He was Family to all of us that are or were connected to a crazy love for the Truck and the life style. Thanks for the lessons, opinions, and stories Dave. Gonna miss that Canadian accent too.

Wow! I am shocked and deeply saddened to hear this terrible news, my sincerest condolences to you and your family.💜 I am not a trucker, but my first love was/ is the Kenworth from Smokey and the Bandit. I found Dave’s channel a few years ago, and have enjoyed his wisdom ever since. The world’s highways are a lot safer because of him. When I hit the lottery, I will buy a black long wheelbase “Pete”, and name it DAVE.

Dave’s 5 million mile achievement and the knowledge gained by his experiences is immeasurable. I will most certainly miss his words of wisdom. Dave I hope you find your golden peterbilt in heaven. From your viewers in Kaufman,Tx and Amarillo,Tx

Requiescat in pace. Many thanks for your family’s contribution to public safety and to the common good.

Had it not been for Dave I would have never have had such an amazing career THANK YOU for everything HE will NEVER be forgotten

Condolences to the family R.I.P to Dave I definitely learned a lot from you, we lost a good one #gonetosoon #restinparadise

Thank you for sharing your inner light and positive, caring attitude. Your wisdom and intelligence. Your stories and advice. Above all I could see in you from the start a loving human being, who cares for others. Farewell dear Dave, I'll see you on the flip side

Peace & Love of God be with you all as together we mourn the loss of Dave. Every man must die, but not every man really lives. Dave lived, and has left behind a legacy that I’m sure will carry on for years to come. Eternal rest grant unto Dave, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen. May almighty God bless you with his peace and strength, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.

So sorry for your loss. Dave helped me through so much when I first obtained my CDL. He was a true asset to the driving family. He will be greatly missed. -Georgia USA

Dave will be missing by so many of us truckers who watched his content and learned and laughed with him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. Rest in peace driver 😔

All truckers have lost the one voice that truthfully spoke for us; telling it like it really is. Our guiding beacon is gone; but not his light.

My condolences to you and your family. As a driver myself I always enjoyed his videos and stories. R.I.P. Dave

Mrs Cathy MacMillan and Family. It’s not hard to tell Dave’s caring nature through my recent find on Dave’s YouTube channel. We need more Dave’s in the world: mentors, coaches, “old school teaching”, who care enough to tell the truth and pay it forward. (R.I.P) God Bless You and your Family.

RIP Thanks for the wisdom

the voice of the everyday man. just a real guy.. he cared about the people and an industry that just keeps losing ground on so many levels. usually drivers pontificating how things should be aren’t worth their salt, but not Dave.. obviously honest and truly helpful sharing his real experience.. you will be missed sir.

Love you man we got it now your shift is over

Dear Cathy, Nick and family, I’m terribly sorry for your loss. Dave at Smart Trucking was a great man who will be sorely missed. He had the best mentoring programs for truckers that is second to none. Please continue to post your channel in the coming weeks and years. You have an abundance of sound safety and business practices that will remain beneficial for all those willing to listen. Dave was the type of man that no one ever imagined would be gone so soon. I will you miss you Dave. Retired Trucker Mary 3M Safe Driver

Deepest sympathies family rip sending prayers.

My deepest condolences to Dave's family and friends my thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time Dave maybe gone but he will never be forgotten

I appreciate the information and knowledge he gave us. Dave will be missed

I didn't know about Dave and Smart Trucking until a few months ago. My dad would have enjoyed hearing Dave's stories and observations. I know I appreciate them.

Saw Dave and his channel in 2016 when I started driving. His info and advice taught me a lot and helped made me be a professional. Losing Dave was losing a voice of reason. By the grace of God he shared his knowledge and wanted to see drivers be professional like him. Or at least that's how I viewed it. I hope to see him in Heaven where we can finally meet and exchange stories.

Please accept my condolences to Dave's family. I will miss your sage advice, stories about the Lettuce King.

Dave helped me a lot with random questions my first year or so in trucking. I've gone on to train close to 20 by now, I have a 1 yr success rate of over 60%, mostly because I fail the one's without a chance of making it.
Even if my new guys don't ever watch his videos I still teach what Dave has in there and it works. I'll keep doing this until I've hung up training myself. To Cathy and family, thank you for helping him make it all these years. The man reached more people than any other driver out there through this platform and I hope one day it shows in the metrics of drivers. American roads are safer because of this Canadian.

RIP Dave.

I wish to make condolences to Dave's family. I never met Dave. He seemed to be a guy with a very big heart.

His passion of trucking and love for the industry is what made push for more to be a better truck driver.

He had a vast amount of knowledge for trucking. He always stood up for drivers, and I think that is what drawn me to his videos on YouTube.

I always enjoyed listening to his stories at the end of the video about him and the lettuce King.

I really wish there was a little bit of Dave in all of us out here on the road.

God bless you

RIP; Dave. As a long time fan of trucking since I was a child, your channel was always my go-to for entertainment and information and your personality was the thing that always made my day. You will be missed dearly.

I am so sorry to read this sad news today. Dave was still in his prime really. So enjoyed his content, straight and informative. My condolences to the family.

God must have needed an important load delivered, so he called on the best. RIP Dave. Condolences to his family and friends.

I’d like to offer my condolences. I got into trucking by watching Dave’s videos on YouTube. I achieved my dream in the industry of driving heavy haul. This wouldn’t have been possible without Dave’s great videos. Dave will be missed. Rest In Peace.

Thank you for all the wisdom and sage advice Dave. I will miss the way you mentored me through my career. Godspeed you Truck Driver.
My love to his family who lost a great man too soon. I can't imagine such a loss will ever not be felt.

“Stay safe. Keep the rubber side down, and I’ll catch you on the backhaul.”

Hi Catherine my name is Jon Ferguson I'm from Illinois. I'm so sorry for your husband Dave. My prayers are with you and your family. I'm a huge fan of Smart Trucking. God bless you and your family. Love your fan of Smart Trucking
Jon Ferguson from Illinois

My Condolences to the Family.
Dave and Smart Trucking are pillars of the 18 wheeler Community. While he navigates the Higways of Heaven in his 379 for all eternity, he will he missed.

Am grateful to you Dave. Backing trailers and applying common sense is what you taught. You also helped drivers to get their worth in time and money. I now drive miles after miles applying all you have taught me. I now identify bad and good driving behaviors. I know to stand up for myself whenever I feel like I am being exploited. Rest well my dear mentor.

Thank you for all the wisdom and sage advice Dave. I will miss the way you mentored me through my career. Godspeed you Truck Driver.
My love to his family who lost a great man too soon. I can't imagine such a loss will ever not be felt.

“Stay safe. Keep the rubber side down, and I’ll catch you on the backhaul.”

Sorry to hear of the passing of Dave. I got out of trucking in 2000 at age 40, but still loved the trucking industry. I appreciated the wealth of knowledge shared by Dave in his videos. Take care and may God bless.

Appreciate everything you did and stood for driver. You will deeply be missed.

He was a constant comfort and steady voice in all our lives. Every good and decent professional Trucker is a little bit like Dave and because of that he will live on...even the not so good Driver can still get there if they follow Dave's advice. May he rest in peace and look over the fleet in the sky. I never met him but I feel like I've known him forever.

You helped so many but God needed you back. Much love and respect from a trucker friend and driver that was inspired by your time and experience. God bless, see you on the flip side 🙏🏽

My most sincere and deepest condolences to the family.
I admired Dave who I considered a mentor ever since I started trucking.
May he rest in peace and never forgotten.

Dear MacMillan Family,

Thank You for everything that Dave gave to us up and coming drivers. I want to wish you and everyone close the family peace and remember the good memories.

Sincerely,

Ryan

Enjoyed the story's and the advice. We got your loads form here on good buddy. Till we meet on that golden highway.

Prayers and condolences to the family...Breaker break on the 19...Big ole shark here Dave...We will take it from here...Rubber side down...Rest in Peace driver...💯

My absolute deepest sympathy and condolences to the family and friends.
Dave was a straight shooter who was absolutely loved by many and myself was honored to know him here. ❤️❤️❤️❤️🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

Rip to a great man. I owe my career to you. Listening to your great advice and tutelage. You’ve helped me and others more than you could know. Thank you so much and rest easy.

My prayers and condolences to Dave’s family: it was certainly a shock to see he had passed, and he is missed already, and will be continually so. May God’s peace and comfort sustain you all through this most difficult time.

Dave was a great companion during the pandemic, I watched many, if not all, of his videos while stranded at home, to the point that I wanted to become a truck driver and leave my career on software engineering. I pray to the Lord to comfort his family and be with them on this sad event. This man made a difference on my life when I least expected. God bless you all.

I appreciate the information and knowledge he gave us. My condolences to Dave's family. Rest in peace.

We miss you.

All truckers have lost the one voice that truthfully spoke for us; telling it like it really is. Our beacon is gone; but his light still shines.

I am really going to miss watching your updated YouTube channels. I only have 3yrs as a new Truck driver. Watching your videos was a teaching no one else would tell.

My sincere condolences to Dave's family. His videos undoubtedly saved many lives. Personally for me when I began trucking I relied on his videos and advice to steer me in the right direction. His passion for trucking and his commitment to safety will leave a huge mark on the industry and drivers he taught through videos on his channel. I never met Dave but I will miss him and his undeniable presence and attitude. May he keep the shiny side up and I will be seeing him on the backhaul!

Thank you Dave, I don't know how I would have made it in the trucking industry without your videos. I love ya man. Thanks again.

RIP big guy, you were of great help for many of us truckers!

Very sorry to see Dave has passed. I watch all the the time in Ireland seeing what was happening in Canada. RIP Dave.

My condolences to everyone and Dave’s family. I never met Dave, but definitely felt a real connection with him through his videos. I’m extremely grateful for all the time that Dave and his family put in to making the YouTube channel. I wouldn’t be half the driver I am today without them.. God bless you all!

Words cannot describe the sorrow I feel for you and your family of losing an absolutely beautiful wonderful man. He will be deeply missed by all fans including myself.

I am very sad to hear of this. The Lettice King was one of the guys who I looked up to and encouraged me to become a trucker. I began watching his stuff around 10 years ago and watched his channel every day. Keep it greasy side down and I'll see you on the back haul.

Cathy, Lindsay, and Nick, accept my deepest condolences. Your husband and dad was like a father figure to me especially when I started in trucking industry. His videos made my driving more confident, thus professional and safe. Thank you for sharing Dave with us.

Thank you for many years of insight and being a voice of reason in our profession. You will be missed. Keep the rubber side down.

Dave was my go to Trucker as I recently began my trucking career. My absolute favorite YouTube Channel for great help and advice. I was deeply saddened when I saw the announcement and was afraid to watch the video thinking it might actually be him. When I think of what a truck driver looks like, I think of Dave. My deepest condolences to his family and friends and the rest of us that will surely miss him. "Be Safe, Keep the rubber side down, and see you on the back haul." RIP brother.

Condolences to your family loved ones. Your sage knowledge in your YouTube content and “rubber side down” advice for drivers everywhere, will be missed.

Never missed one of your videos or live stream. Always enjoyed his old time trucker stories, many of them, that he would tell with a smile and a chuckle.
🚚 🚚 🚛
Michael from Minnesota.

This good man is one of the biggest reasons that I hold a CDL today.

Dave, thank you for helping me start a new career, and provide better for my family. Thank you.

What a wonderful legacy to mankind. May God comfort your family as only He can. I thank you for your inspiration and guidance through my trucking journey.

My condolences to the family. To Dave, rest well. I tell anyone that is planning on operating to watch your channel. It is an investment of time to learn from someone that has the correct information.

I discovered this channel when I was 13 and I had a keen interest in trucking. Dave had this way of explaining it so well, that 13 year old me with no understanding, was able to then understand the basics of many things about trucking. now been 20 I’m saddened to hear the news, RIP Dave, condolences to the family. From Australia

I only found his channel about 3 years ago, but I was in love with his videos. I will be joining the industry soon.

Rest easy 💔 😢

In this difficult time of mourning, I pray for peace and strength to rest on Dave’s family and friends. I enjoyed watching his videos over the years, he will be missed greatly by so many. God bless you all.

Dave MacMillan "Diesel Dave" is a Canadian Trucker, a Knight Of The Road! Cathy, Sorry for the loss of your husband. Nick & Lindsay, Sorry for the loss of your father. Smart Trucking helps me be a better American Trucker, a better Knight Of The Road! THX for sharing Smart Trucking! USA-CANADA

Dear Dave thank you for your knowledge in the trucking industry and you taught me a lot this industry from CMP, Trainers, Big mega carriers how they operate on your pay and hometime. I watch ur channel before I go to orientation and ask the questions you said they tell me they refuse to hire under certain. Circumstances and I leave I know my worth at a company and I am very grateful for Smart trucking once again you rest in peace God has the wheel now . Sincerely yours [email protected]

I'm so sorry for your loss, I was not an avid watcher but the videos I saw Dave gave it to you straight out no sugar coated stuff. May the Lord hold him in his semi in the sky.

My sincere condolences to the family of Dave MacMillan. I stumbled across the videos two plus years ago and have appreciated each video since. A great tutorial of which I am very grateful to all involved. God speed and RIP. Paddy O, New York, NY

Dave was a great one. His videos on YouTube helped me out with my early trucking career. He will be sorely missed.

I first met Dave in grade 9. From that point onwards during our High School years we were a team. If you saw one of us, you saw us both. We pumped gas together at GTO Carwash, went to England on a school trip and, when old enough, even a road trip to Florida. It was on that trip we bought a CB radio and talked to the truckers up and down I-75 highway. Maybe it was that taste of the trucking world that pointed him in the direction he eventually followed. After high school we lost track of each other as life sometimes does. Then about 8 years ago I had reason to go to Parry Sound and I was determined to find him and reconnect. We did and from that point on we would get together for a dinner or coffee every few months. His last visit to our home was for our 45th wedding anniversary in which he was an usher back in 1978. True Friendship withstands Time, Distance & Silence.

I didn't even know Dave had passed. He sent me a very kind and thoughtful e-mail some months back that really made my day. We both talked of the GLORY days of trucking that we both came up in and how we each missed them. May The LORD & SAVIOUR bring you rest my BrotherTrucker .......KP

I'm and old trucker just like Dave. The old guys know stuff that sadly go away with us. Our heartfelt condolences from one trucker family to yours.

My sincere condolences to his wife Cathy and the family and friends. Praying for Cathy and the children.
Rest easy Dave.

Thank you Dave for sharing your knowledge, insight, and experiences with us for all these years. I always laughed so hard at your stories. You are missed.

Dave MacMillan was a Canadian Trucker, a Knight Of The Road! Cathy, Sorry for the loss of your husband. Nick & Lindsay, Sorry for the loss of your father. Smart Trucking helps me be a better American Trucker, a better Knight Of The Road! THX for sharing Smart Trucking! USA-CANADA

GOD bless Dave!! Enjoyed his smart trucking videos. Not a trucker, but enjoyed his take on things. Keep up his positive attitude, and of course keep the rubber side down!! May we all meet in a better place on our last haul home!