Passed away peacefully on June 17, 2023, following a long struggle with Alzheimer’s. He was born on September 13, 1937, in Victoria.
Predeceased by his father James, mother Jean, sister Barbara, brother Douglas and daughter Dawna. David is survived by his loving wife Johanna Steinmetz, brothers Bruce (Gananoque ON) and Mike (Betty, Vernon BC), step-son Michael Schultz (Elena), daughters Marnie (Bob, Airdrie AB) and Linette, son Ian (Denmark) and numerous grand/great-grand-children, nieces and nephews.
From an early age David knew he wanted to be part of the RCN, enlisting in 1955 following a few years in Sea Cadets, and retiring as a Chief Yeoman of Signals in 1992. After this he worked as a security supervisor at the RBCM, retiring again in 2002.
David thrived being on the water, skippering his classic wooden boat MV Evensong almost everywhere along the south Vancouver Island coast, and fishing for salmon. He played softball, golfed, bowled and curled, all with great skill. He was well travelled and loved to travel, especially to his beloved south of France, but equally enjoyed camping and RVing. Naturally curious, David was always keen to explore and experience new things. He also gave considerably of his time to volunteer pursuits with the RCL, the TerriVic Jazz Festival, C&POs Assn (President 2007 – 2010) and taking his mother and mother-in-law to various appointments complete with the obligatory tea and cookies afterwards.
David was a cheerful, easy-going, compassionate man who enjoyed a good chat and always tried to see the best in others. He will be very much missed.
Heartfelt thanks to the staff at Broadmead Lodge for their kind care of David the past five years.
There will be a private gathering.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
23 Responses
Condolences to Joanne about the loss of her loved one. He was my brother and I loved him. We had our differences when we were young but as we aged we became quite close. We went golfing together and had a few wets along the way. He was exactly 11 months younger than me so when his birthday came up I used to say we’re the same age and he always came back with “BUT YOU’RE OLDER”. Rest in peace David you will be missed.
Johanna and family very sorry to hear of Dave passing. Both SV WINDROVER and MV EVENSONG berthed alongside for a number of years at West Bay Marina. I enjoyed all are RCN stories. He was a Gentleman and sorry we have not touch base last 20 years or so.
K.J.Brown (Ken)
MV WESTERN
My deepest condolences to you Johanna and family. I never had the pleasure of sailing with Dave but our paths crossed on numerous occasions. My favourite banter with Dave was, “make a signal yeoman”, always garnering a salty retort and some good conversation. Dave was one of the truly great guys, the consummate professional and a great hearted person who gave freely of his time to a myriad of causes. I along with the regulars will miss his presence at Navy Days. Hope to see you take his place Johanna. RIP Dave.
Ken Johnston