With broken hearts we share that Dave passed away peacefully at home on February 5 after a 22-month battle with glioblastoma.
Dave was surrounded by his wife and best friend of 25 years Tara, son Ethan, daughter Annika, brother Mike (Lori), brother Bruce (Del) and his parents Don and Daphne.
Dave was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle to seven nieces and nephews and confidante to an endless number of supportive, treasured friends. He was born and raised in Powell River. Growing up, he was very active in sports. Soccer came first, before his dad started coaching him in basketball. Other sports included track and field, volleyball and baseball.
Upon graduation, Dave worked for the school district and local municipality before settling in at the Powell River mill, where he stayed until his retirement. In his spare time, he successfully constructed five family homes.
Dave was loved by many and will be extremely missed. His legacy will carry on through his love and passion for all outdoor activities. He looked forward to a hike with panoramic views and mountain biking with caution, reminding us to keep our wheels on the ground! He was an involved, proud dad, and he enjoyed coaching both Ethan and Annika through many years in soccer, hockey and baseball. Dave was their #1 fan with encouraging, insightful comments prior to and after games — whether the kids wanted to hear feedback or not!
Dave had a great sense of humour, even throughout his battle, and embraced life positively and wisely. He shared his timely one-liners right up until his passing.
We know Dave is no longer suffering and is at peace. Our hearts are aching, but we have so many fond memories of our time together. Words cannot even begin to convey the weight of this loss nor the special place Dave will forever hold in our hearts.
Thank you to our oncology nurses, Dr. Takhar, Dr. Burns and Dr. Harrison, who supported Dave throughout his treatment. We would also like to thank palliative care and Jennifer Goodson, our dedicated OT, who always made sure Dave was comfortable. A special thank-you to Dr. Gambling and nurse Leigh for their genuine compassion in our final days.
A Celebration of life will be held at Dwight Hall in Powell River on Saturday, April 6, at 1 pm. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Brain Cancer Canada or Tourdecure.ca (BC Cancer Foundation). Presently, there is no cure for glioblastoma and contributions to fund further research are greatly needed.
"I AM WITH YOU ALWAYS" ~ Matthew 28:20
