It is with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, Dad, Papa, and cherished friend, David James Vincent Howells, on September 30, 2025. Dave was a pillar of our family and community, and his loss will be profoundly felt.
Born on August 19, 1952, in Montreal to Dilys and Winston David Howells, Dave grew up in Burnaby and later moved to Victoria with his parents and brother, Geoffrey (Sandi) Howells, in the late 1960s. At just 15, he joined the Racket Club, where he made many friendships, and later became a proud member of Uplands Golf Club. Dave attended Oak Bay High School, graduating in 1970. He went on to attend the University of Victoria, where he met the love of his life, Brenda Davison, at the Sub Pub on campus. During this time, Dave also met many of his lifelong friends, people he cherished deeply and remained close to throughout his life.
Dave had a short university career, majoring in beers and bridge, where he earned his infamous nickname “Hooter.” He was then offered a job by one of his greatest mentors, Tut Jones, at Victoria Paving Company, which kickstarted his 50-year career in the paving industry. In 1987, he and his partners founded Capital City Paving Ltd. The continued success of CCP is one of Dave’s proudest accomplishments and remains a strong family-run business to this day.
Dave was a visionary and dedicated leader whose impact on the road construction industry is immeasurable. A trusted mentor, he was always willing to lend an ear to anyone who needed it. Dave saw the good in people and was always ready to pay it forward, supporting and encouraging others to pursue their goals and dreams. He had an incredible impact on the lives of many in the Victoria business community, and mentorship was a deeply meaningful part of his life.
No matter his many successes, Dave’s true joy and deepest pride was always his family. In 1975, Dave and Brenda married and recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. Together they welcomed five children: Leigha (Darryl), Trevor (Emily), Kip (Karli), Brandon (Olivia), and Chelsea (Ryan). Dave was also incredibly proud of his eight grandbabies: Isla, Ryder, Michael, Jaxson, Kohen, Linden, Malcolm, and Brooklyn. Dave also loved the dogs in his life: Bella, Hudson, Memphis, Gus, and Ace.
He loved travelling with Brenda, good food, and cheering on his kids and grandkids in all their sporting and life endeavours. If something was happening, Dave was there, front row, smiling, and full of pride. His favourite thing was spending time with his family, stepping back and watching the chaos from a distance. He was our biggest fan, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. We love you all the world Dad.
A celebration of life will be held 2:00pm on December. 2, 2025 at The Victoria Conference Centre – Crystal Garden.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to KidSport BC at www.kidsportcanada.ca/british-columbia.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
This obituary is the property of the “Howells” family and may not be reproduced, distributed, or altered in any way without prior written consent.
37 Responses
Roland. I knew David and his brother Geoff. I knew you as well with your white car Chelsea.
They were great guys.
I was deeply saddened to hear of Dave’s passing today. He and I started at Victoria Paving around the same time in the early 70s, and while I remained a mostly seasonal worker, Dave carved out a path of leadership and excellence in the industry. We were both impacted by the generosity and guidance of some of the giants in asphalt lay down on the Island: Jones, Dewhurst, Layfield and Buncy to name a few. My brother Henry, who ran the Store Street asphalt plan for several years, always spoke very highly of Dave. My thoughts are with those of you who had the privilege to share time and space with this very fine gentleman.
What a tough loss. I also worked with Dave in the early 70s. We have reminisced for years about that magical timeframe in our lives. He was such a great guy and a positive influence to all who knew him. My deepest condolences to you Brenda and your great family.
I met Dave at the beginning of my long career in construction. He was the kind of man you wanted to be around — steady, genuine, and full of integrity. He had a way of making people feel good about themselves. He will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.
Dear Howells Family,
We were so sorry to hear of David’s passing. He was a brilliant man who led with compassion and insight. He was a mentor to many and had a profound effect on my career and my life, and it was an honour to work for him for 24 years.
David valued his employees and made sure they were treated well, and fairly.
I have no doubt that his legacy will continue through all of you and your children.
I know there is nothing that can be said to take away the grief and sorrow that you all feel, but we hope that you’ll find comfort, knowing that David’s memory will live through the lives of all that he has touched.
Our deepest condolences,
Paul and Tami Rober
Gerry Mounce and Family
Dear Brenda and Family
So sorry to hear of Dave’s passing, he has been a friend for many years. I have such fond memories from racquet club days to golf trips to working together in business. Dave always carried a quiet strength with integrity and wisdom. He will be missed and always respected.
Take care my friend, rest in peace.
OUR HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES TO YOUR FAMILIES from the MOUNCE FAMILY
Dear Brenda and family,
I just recently learned of the loss of Dave/Hooter.
Loss is too small a word for the huge hole this must leave in your lives.
I was so happy to see you both over a year ago at Hazell’s 70th.
I wish I had seen more of you.
So many memories of our crazy times together all those years ago, Dave always smiling, always cheerful.
Nearly missing the ferry to his own wedding!
Thinking of you.