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
Brenda and Chelsea and family.
So sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. What a special guy and wonderful family man! I am sure he will be greatly missed. Sending you hugs and love to get you through this difficult time.
Brandon, Trevor, Kip, Leigha and Family – It was an honor to have worked for Dave these last 8 years, my fellow “Montrealer”. I’ve enjoyed his stories, guidance. I will always remember his generosity in sponsoring Royal Bay Rugby as well as many other sports, teams and charities. You have all been so strong in this hard time, I would say that your father would be proud of you all but it is obvious he already was. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
Dear Brenda and Family,
Sending heartfelt condolences for such a significant loss in your lives. Your David is still by your side all and his energy will always illuminate you, especially within your hearts. With your strong family values you will rise above all obstacles.
Brenda,
I was so sorry to hear that Dave had passed away. He was a great guy, always positive. We would cross paths once in a while over the last 50 years, either work related or just around town, it was always enjoyable catching up on family, work, and life in general.
Our condolences to you and your family, he will be missed.
Art and Louise
Brenda, Leigha, Trevor, Kip, Brandon, Chelsea, and Family,
Shock, sadness, disbelief, sorrow, grief, loss.
Words can’t describe our feelings upon hearing of Dave’s passing.
A friend for “almost ever”, Dave will be fondly remembered and always missed.
Our condolences to all of you.
Doug & Liz Turner
Brenda and family
We were all saddened to see the notice of Dave’s passing. Wishing peace and serenity for you and your family at this very difficult time.
Loree, Stacey & Andrew
Brenda, Leigha, Trevor, Kip, Brandon and Chelsea,
We are so very sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. He was one of the good guys, always warm and welcoming with a big genuine smile.
Heartfelt condolences to all of you.
Jane and Gary Schwann
Howells Family- thinking of you all during this time. Dave was such a genuine, kind soul and I know he is looking down on everyone with pride.
My thoughts and prayers are with you!
Dear Brenda:
Our dearest sympathies and condolences to you and your wonderful family. We have nothing but great memories of Dave going all the way back to when he first arrived in Victoria.
Don & Laurie Woodland
So sad to hear of Dave’s passing. Our careers were similar with starting Companies in the 80’s and working together on so many Projects through the challenges of those times. Families grew up together “on the Ridge” and the next generation is working together today. Our Condolences to all the Howell’s from all of us.
John and Betty Ann Knappett and Family