Proud and loving father, devoted husband, encouraging teacher and larger than life to all who knew him. David was the principal of the Glenlyon Norfolk Middle School. At the age of 47, after sixteen months of a battle with Glioblastoma handled with grace and dignity, David died. He will forever be in our hearts. David was a highly respected educator, who led by example and put others first. He had a sense of adventure that gave him many opportunities, teaching and administering schools in British Columbia and Ontario. David was an adored camp leader in both day and residential camps. He loved the outdoors and especially had passions for canoeing, rowing and running which he shared enthusiastically with family and friends. David is survived by his wife, Jill; children, Patrick, Cameron and Christopher. Predeceased by his mother, Karen. Also survived by his father, Colin and stepmother Sherrill; sister, Beth and husband David Burrows; stepbrothers Andrew and Tyler Walker, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins with whom he shared quality time.
There will be a private family service, followed by a memorial celebration of his life in Victoria. This will take place at the Beach Drive Campus (1701 Beach Drive) of the Glenlyon Norfolk School at 2:00 pm on Friday, October 9th. There will also be a celebration of his life on Friday, October 16 at 2:00 pm at Timothy Eaton Memorial Church, 230 St. Clair Avenue West, Toronto, Ontario. In the expression of sympathy, donations would be appreciated to the David Graham Family Trust, c/o Michael Newediuk, 2058 Kipling Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M9W 4J9.
62 Responses
Colin, I was saddened to see the notice about David’s passing. My condolences to you and your family on your loss.
Regards
Alida
Jill, Patrick, Cameron and Christopher – Our thoughts are with you in this difficult time. We are so glad that we were able to visit with Dave this summer; we are all so lucky to have had the time with him that we did. You must be so proud of your Dad/husband – he was an extraordinary man who will live in the hearts and minds of all who knew and loved him. A special man, a special family. Lots of love to you all,
Sarah and Angus
Dear Jill, Patrick, Graham, and Christopher –
The Memorial Service today was a perfect sendoff for David, and we felt privileged to be part of an “Amazing” event attended by over 500 friends. Each speaker gave moving and funny tributes to a man who touched each of us in his all too short life, but your words of strength and encouragement at the beginning and the end of the service was an example of the flame that David passed on and will burn brightly in your family. If you ever need help with your journey, you can be comforted in knowing you will have support, no matter which way you turn.
Jeff, Sandi and Samantha Norton
Dear Colin, Sherrill, Jill, Beth & family
We were deeply saddened to learn of David’s passing. Your immense loss and sorrow can only be lessened by memories of the life he lived, albeit far too short, his great courage and inspiration to so many young people. We remember his infectious smile and impressive determination to help others and do well in everything he did.
Colin – Betty and I reflect on David’s early days when he fought so hard to recover from the serious burns he suffered as an infant. We pray that the Lord’s peace that passes all understanding will be with you at this extremely sad time. With our love & deepest sympathy. Betty and David Lay.
Jill, Patrick, Graham, and Christopher.
Our thoughts are with you today. David has always been an inspiration and, for those lucky enough to have known him, an element of his warmth and spirit will always be with us.
Much love from,
David & Lori, Zachary, Keegan, and Brady
Dear Colin, Sherrill and family,
I am so very sorry to hear this news…please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
With sincerest condolences,
Patricia
Dear Colin,
My heartfelt condolences to you, Sherrill and your family. Please know you are in our thoughts.
Jane
Jill (and family),
I am so sorry to hear the news about Dave. I had tried to keep informed about the news through the rower’s grapevine but only hear through and email from Armo that Dave had lost his fight against the disease
I recall Dave as a caring and giving friend who made a positive impression and all those he touched. His positive attitude and genuine personality was infectious, even on those mornings on the Cataraqui River when things got rough and wet in the cold Fall air. We were always led by his example, even though he denied ever being the leader. He always had a word of encouragement when you least expected it, and it was always well received.
I was always impressed by his decision to go back to teachers college (taking primary-junior) when our cohorts were working on Bay Street. In him I found a kindred soul, both refugees from an earlier age at Queen’s (we’re both originally 85’s) and both choosing to head back to school for more. I recall our clumsy guitar sessions and going for runs.
As a precocious 12 year old, I asked my grandmother what it was like growing old. I clearly, remember her saying that most it was just part of the journey of life, but the worst part was watching your friends die. She was right. However, our loss is nothing compared to yours.
My thoughts are with you and the kids in this difficult time. Dave was a force of life for us all and he will remain in our hearts as an example of what to truly hold dear.
Mark Smith
(with Isabelle, Ariane and Xavier)
Dear Jill and family,
Jill you taught our Michael in Grade 2 @ Sterling Hall School.(many yrs ago as Mike is now 26). We knew that you had married David and how wonderful for you to have three children. From all of the emails above I can see you certainly married a wonderful man. I am so sorry for you and the boys to lose David at such a young age.
I thank you for all you did for our Michael and how you made learning so intresting.
We have resently purchased a home in Victoria and would love to get together with you when we next visit possibly June/10.
Our deepest sympathy goes out to you and may God give you the Grace to go forward in your life .
Love to you all, Dawn& Bernie Rivait.
Dear Jill,
I never had the opportunity to know David but I feel as if I do. His kind, joyous, inspiring and positive spirit seems to radiate from all that speak of him. He has been a gift to all that have known him.
I admire your courage Jill. You have been so brave and your giving spirit and loving dedication to your family is an inspiration to me. We have been lucky to have you in our lives and you are loved by so many.
Our heart goes out to you and we send you our love,
Jennifer and Scott