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
Dear Brenda, your children and grandchildren,
We are so very sorry to hear of Dave’s death. Our memories of him go back to teen years at the Racquet Club. We treasure those shared times and remember him with love.
Lois and Peter Mason
Brenda and Leigha,Trevor,Kip,Brandon,Chelsea,and families.
My heartfelt condolences.
All my memories of Dave are good ones.
Brenda and family,
We were so lucky to have had you as our next door neighbours 32 years ago when we moved to Victoria. You and Dave welcomed us so warmly and our kids became great friends. Our whole family has wonderful memories of Dave and how kind he was to both Sharon and Jeffrey. Your house was the “fun” house to spend time at with lots of laughter and activity. Dave was such great Dad and a wonderful neighbour! Thinking of all of you.
Gail and Rick Steele
Enjoyed Dave’s company through business and social times for many years. Respect is always what I felt for Dave. He will be missed by many. Condolences to Brenda and family.
Graham & Darleen
Dear Brenda and Family,
Our condolences to you at this time. This must be an incredibly difficult time for you. Dave created so much and was admired by so many people in the community. I am so sorry for your loss.
We are so very sorry for your loss. Barney had great respect for Dave. He is not able to remember at this time so I am sending his condolences to the family.
Debi Sjogren
Barney Brend
My deepest condolences to the entire family on David’s passing. He will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known him.
Brenda and family, We are so shocked and sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. He was always a gentle , soft spoken dad/grandpa who left us far too soon. I’ll always remember his smile. The Mitchelmores
Brenda, Leigha, Trevor, Kip, Brandon, & Chelsea.
I met David in the early 70’s in the paving business and we enjoyed a wonderful working relationship.
Similar careers, David for Victoria Paving & me with OK Paving.
David started Capital City Paving with Tony Trace & Dave Spilsbury which became very successful with David’s leadership, his business’s values, honesty/integrity/trustworthiness.
Family was always a priority to David.
David’s legacy will live on through his family and his many, business relationships.
Our sincerest & deepest condolences.
Garry & Lynn Rai
Colin and I, along with our family, are so saddened to hear of your loss. We have loved sharing fun times with you over the years and know that Dave’s memory will always be there to comfort you. What a guy! What a great life and family he helped to build with you. Sending warm hugs to you all.