It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Dave Bayliss.  After a short illness, he passed away peacefully at home.  He is survived by his wife, Leslie; children, Linda (Scott), Neil (Shiloh), Karen; grandson, Andrew; sisters, Jay Birney and Phyllis/Sherry Thorburn.  He is predeceased by his daughter, Robin and sister, Patricia Smith.

Dave was born in Victoria where he lived all of his life, except for a few adventurous years working on the CPR ships, the Weather ships and in the Canadian Army where he was posted in Germany with the Canadian Scottish Regiment.  In 1954, Dave returned to the family business, Bayliss Signs, growing it to one of the most successful sign businesses on Vancouver Island.  He was a pillar in the Victoria community, active in many groups.  During Dave’s retirement, he enjoyed many years in his garden (going up on his roof, keeping it immaculately clean), meeting friends for coffee, and traveling the world with his wife of 60 years. He was a kind and loving man, saw the positives in life, was loved and respected by everyone, and always ready with a story to share.

There will be no memorial service.

Flowers are gratefully declined.

Condolences may be offered to the family below.

McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com

  • Brent Birney

    David taught me a lot about life. His first present to me was a pair of boxing gloves. I wonder what he was telling me. Thank you.

  • David Leung

    Dear Lesley and family, please accept my condolences for the loss of Dave. He was a man of integrity and a truly gentleman. I have fond memories of him as a business associate and a friend. He will be missed. If there is anything which I can help, please let me know.

    Blessings,
    David & Ruth
    West Vancouver, BC

  • Dan Cunningham

    Dave was simply the best employer I ever had, always thought of his employees as almost family. When Bayliss Sign shut down production myself and two other employees started our own company, Dave was a tremendous help getting us off the ground in giving us work and renting facilities to us so we could hit the ground running, without his kindness and help in the beginning our venture would have been so much harder. Those were great years at Bayliss.

  • Dan Houston

    We were sorry to hear of Dave’s passing, He was a true gentleman. We had so much respect for Dave and how he conducted himself in life and especially in his business. He was a class act.
    My Dad ” Larry ” tried very hard to mold our company Houston Signs to simulate Bayliss sign. Perhaps one of the most complimentary things that ever happened was when Dave Bayliss invited my Dad to join him at the table with the World Sign Association. (This was an invitation only membership. ) We as the Houston Family always hold the Bayliss family in very high regard, and wish them all our condolences at this time. From all of us @ Houston Signs.

  • Pat Hall

    Leslie, my condolences to you.
    Another great softball supporter has left us. Bb

  • Anne Scott

    Dear Leslie and family….I am so very sad to read of David’s passing.
    I’m also sorry we lost touch but remember the good times we spent together those
    many years ago. He was always a gentleman and will be missed by all who knew him.
    Sincerely, Anne Scott

  • Frank Leonard

    In offering condolences to the family, I also want to express how much I valued Dave’s friendship and support over the years. His reminder that a lunch was overdue was always welcome and timely – and of course, his support for my political adventures was so gratifying. Dave was a role model in business, and in so many other ways. We miss him.

  • Major (Rtd) David Valentine

    Dave & Family;

    R.I.P. olde Soldier. You have earned our place in the memories of all that knew you and loved you. You served our Regiment with honour.

  • Bev McIvor

    Dear Leslie and Family, David will missed by you and everyone whose life he touched. He was so kind and thoughtful and always had a smile for everyone. Thinking of you and all the good times we had. Bev McIvor

  • Gary Webb

    We have such wonderful memories of the years we lived as neighbours on Emerald Close – none the least are the great times our children had playing in the ‘circle’! So very sorry to hear of Dave’s passing – such a hard worker and as we passed always a super smile and friendly greeting. We are thinking of you all at this very sad time. Our love – Gary, Evonne, Craig & Karen

  • Bob & Bev Darnell

    We are so very sad to read of David’s passing. Had many great years with Dave & Bayliss all the way back to 1966. He not only was he a true friend but one of the most honest and trustworthy business man in Victoria. A great loss to all who knew him and to Victoria. I will miss you David and our yearly lunches. Bob

  • Sarjit Manhas

    Please accept my deepest sympathy and condolences to Dave’s family on his passing. I grew up across from Bayliss Neon on Rock Bay Avenue and knew him and his father. I was fortunate enough to meet him again several years back at the Canadian Scottish Regimental Museum. We spoke of many things but particularly our dog, Chaser. Dave was kindness personified and I attest to that because Chaser would always go across to the office to visit and remain until closing time. I am sorry for the family’s loss.

  • Tom and Sherry Black

    Dave…you were the ‘ Best of the Best’!
    I always enjoyed the coffees at the ‘Y’ and Macambo’s with you, and our lunches and dinners at your favorite place, JJ noodle House.
    We had fun with you and Leslie in Fort Lauderdale – either before or after your fabulous cruises!
    Condolences to your whole family, you will be missed.
    RIP, Dave.

  • Holly

    So sorry for your loss. Sending my love and hugs
    May he RIP

  • Mike and Michele Bull

    Having met your dad once only , Mike and I want you to know how sad to hear of him passing . Losing a parent is emotional no matter what age they are. Love to you and the family Linda.

  • Lisa Kollitz

    You know how much I loved your dad. He has such a special space in Iraq hearts. I hope to give all of you proper hugs really soon. Love, Lisa

  • Patricia Fox

    I am so sorry ,other than my deepest condolences, I simply can’t find the right words for how “ Mr Bayliss’s”( he didn’t get to be Dave to me till I grew up ) passing affects me . Part of my childhood memories – Always happy and kind , generous and patient .
    Lesly , Linda , Karen and Neil – my deepest sympathy- he was a great guy .
    He is with his little bird now .

  • Tara Williams

    warm hugs and thoughts to your family . thinking of you x x x Tara

  • Paul Blais

    What a very nice summary of his life. He was always a gentleman, and a great role model. A throwback to the era of simple decency and kindness. I am so sorry for everyone in the family, and everyone else who will miss his consistency and good humour.

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