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
Trevor and I offer our sincere condolences to the entire Howells’ family in the loss of Dave. It was great to get to know your entire family when we became neighbors at the lake. Dave was always smiling and friendly. What a tremendous loss to everyone.
Shelly and I send our heartfelt condolences on the passing of Dave.
I still have fond memories of meeting Dave for the very first time back when we were both in our twenties. Indeed he will be greatly missed.
Sending love and hugs from,
Andy & Shelly
Dear Brenda, Chelsea, Brandon and Family: Our hearts go out to you all, we were so sorry to learn of Dave’s passing. Sending thoughts and hugs, we know how much he will be missed.
Norm and Darien
Dear Brenda & Family: Jack and I were so sad to hear of the passing of Dave.
Please accept our deepest condolences.
Take care,
Barb/Jack Kuyvenhoven
Dear Brenda and family. We are thinking of you and offer our deepest condolences. I am remembering Hooter as an amazing man I met back in early ‘70s when he was a dispatcher at Victoria Paving. We then worked together at Island Asphalt in the early ‘80s. He was a man of honest intent and generosity; a man rightfully respected by all that knew him. You have left a mark on many a heart and will not be forgotten. Rest in Peace.
Brandon,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your dad. You always spoke so beautifully of him, and he sounded like a truly wonderful man.
My deepest condolences to you and your family during this difficult time.
Blessings,
Barbara Bond
Dear Brenda and family ,
Sending our deepest condolences to you and yours. So many wonderful memories of a man who made such a significant impact. So many stories, so many smiles.
Mike and Kathy Jawl
A gem of a man gone too soon. Dave was a wonderful friend and a better employer. We are glad to have had him in our lives. Our sympathies to the Howells Family. xox❤️
What a sad loss. I worked with Dave at Victoria Paving in the 70’s. We had many dealings in the industry over the years. He was a great guy and it was a privilege to have known him.
Dear Brenda & Family: please accept our deepest condolences with regard to Dave’s passing. We are so very sorry & know what an extreme, difficult time this must be for all. Wanted to send a card right away but due to the postal strike could not.
Know that we are thinking of you all & sending our love & prayers. Sincerely, Gaye, Russell & Family.