July 4th, 1946 – February 19th, 2009
Dave quietly passed away at home on Thursday, February 19th, surrounded by his loving family. An extraordinarily creative, passionate, and multi-talented man, he will be deeply missed by his wife Maureen, his sons John (Megan) and Mike, his daugher Jenny, his brother Jim, and many other close relatives and friends. Dave was pre-deceased by his father, Ralph, and mother, Jane. Born in Ottawa in 1946, Dave grew up in a military family and at an early age learned to adjust to several moves across the country as his father pursued a career with the Canadian Air Force. Dave graduated from Oak Bay High School in 1964 and received a Bachelor of Arts (Philosophy) Degree from the University of Ottawa in 1973. Dave moved back to Victoria and began what would be a 33–year career as a social worker with the Ministry of Children and Families, a position that he maintained until his retirement two years ago. A highly principled man, Dave approached his professional life with dedication, integrity, and compassion, qualities that were also very evident in Dave’s private life. His world centered around his family. His love for his children was ignited by a desire to share with them every experience one can imagine; Dave constructed a hydraulic-powered flight simulator in the basement so that the kids could have adventures in space. His love of the ocean led to many wonderful sailing trips with the family. Island exploration, beach camping, and nature photography were typical weekend activities. Throughout his entire life Dave also maintained and nourished a passion for music, rehearsing with the band in his studio every week. Skilled at many instruments, his love was for the electric guitar, which he played until only a few weeks ago.
The family would like to thank Dr. Weinerman and Michael Miller at the Cancer Agency for their compassionate care throughout Dave’s chemo treatments. Special thanks also go to the staff at Victoria Hospice for their incredible support throughout Dave’s illness, and especially during the last week at home. Thanks also to Pam Steneker, community care nurse, for her long-term support.
A celebration of Dave’s life will be held at the McCall Bros. chapel, 1400 Vancouver St., on Saturday, February 28th, at 2:00 pm. A reception will follow. Donations in Dave’s name may be made to either the BC Cancer Agency or the Victoria Hospice Foundation.
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