March 23, 1955 - May 12, 2022
In loving memory ~
Hark, now hear the sailors cry
Smell the sea and feel the sky
Let your soul and spirit fly into the mystic
(Into the Mystic, Van Morrison 1970)
David passed away at home peacefully, surrounded by family on May 12, 2022 ending a long battle with liver cancer. As was his style, he remained optimistic and positive through it all, rarely complained, took it all in stride, and made the best he could of his life right up until the end. In the days leading up to his passing, he was visited by family and his closest friends, sharing music and stories; celebrating the love his love for us, and our love for him. He didn't let a single moment go to waste.
David had a gift for the gab and a brilliance bordering on genius for repairing anything old or broken. He had a life-long passion for buying antiques and collectibles (stereos, lamps, fixtures, furniture, and so much more), and restoring them for himself or for others. During the late 80s, he owned and operated Yesterday's Antiques in Ladysmith, growing the business he built in the Chemainus Antique malls the years previously. For many years before and afterwards he also organized the enormously successful annual Dogwood Antique Show at Fuller Lake Arena, attracting many thousands of customers, and bringing in collectors from all over North America.
In 1998, David met the love of his life, Joanne, and in 1999 they purchased their oceanfront dream house. Through the years they built this house into a home where they welcomed family and friends. Many varied guests were entertained including artists and musicians, always surrounded by the love and charisma that embodied who David was. Together he and Joanne built a welcoming, loving place that was always enjoyed by all. So many wonderful memories.
David got immense pleasure from being by the sea, going out crabbing and prawning in his little boat and seeking secluded spots for picnics and adventure. Among his favourite times were these little getaways, sometimes in solitude but even better with the company of Joanne, his grandsons or a favourite friend... and they were all his favourites.
He will be remembered and missed for his wittiness and ability to make others laugh, his willingness to lend a hand to anyone in need and his loving nature. His love for his wife Joanne, his daughter Teressa and grandson Ekow, son Aaron, daughter-in-law Jacquie and grandson Tyson, stepdaughter Erika and son-in-law Jeremy truly knew no bounds. He is survived and will be forever missed by them, his brothers Wade (Sheila) and Kevin (Michelle), and his sister Faye Hollett (Tim), along with many nieces and nephews and a long list of close friends (most especially Dean, and Tom and Francis).
In lieu of flowers, David would only wish every one of you to live your life, embrace your passions and most of all, share your love with those who mean the most to you.