David Lovewell died peacefully at Sunset Lodge on August 16, 2019 at the age of 90. Growing up a farmer’s son in the English county of Norfolk, he studied for the ministry. In 1954, he married Patricia Lovewell and the two emigrated to Newfoundland so David could take up his first charge in the United Church of Canada. Except for three years in Bermuda, the couple’s entire married life was spent in Canada, in various communities in Newfoundland, Alberta and British Columbia. The past 30 years they lived in Victoria. In 2017, soon before Patricia died, David’s dementia led to his move to Sunset Lodge.
David was known for his wit, his dynamism and commitment to his Christian faith and he and Patricia shared a special bond throughout their marriage. He will be dearly missed by his son Mark and daughter Rachael (Michael) and by his extensive circle of English family and Canadian friends, including members of First United Church in Victoria, where he was minister, and St. Aidan’s United Church, where he and Patricia were long-time members.
Heartfelt thanks go to Dr. Geoffrey Luckhurst and the staff at Sunset Lodge for their loving care of David in recent years.
A Celebration of David’s Life will take place at 2 pm on Thursday, August 29, 2019 at St. Aidan’s United, 3703 St. Aidan’s Street, Victoria.
Donations in David’s memory may be made to St. Aidan’s.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
16 Responses
Dear Mark, Rachael, and Mike:
So sad to learn of your father’s passing and also your mother’s passing in 2017 (which I only learned of Christmas 2018 when I tried to phone).
Dave was not only the best minister I knew, he was so relatable, and funny; loved his stories. Myself and my family hold good memories of Dave and Pat’s friendship.
Dave and Pat were like my extended family in Canada. Their move from Calgary to Victoria put many miles between us so we didn’t get to see each other very often. We did have a few good visits and I cherish those. Your parents will always hold a special place in my heart. I love them so much and I AM HEART BROKEN.
My deepest condolences to you and may God be with you during this sad, sad time.
Betty Prochaska and family
Dear Mark and Rachael,
Jerry and I are so sorry to read of the passing of your father. The obituary is very moving. Please accept our heartfelt condolences.
Cynthia and Jerry
Toronto
Mark, Rachael and Michael; Gwen and I send our condolences to you in this time of loss. We so much enjoyed being side yard neighbours of Mom and Dad for many wonderful years. Our brief talks through the hedge were always good. Your Dad’s declaration of ” It’s a glorious morning ” still rings in my head. I can still hear the clank of cutlery on the counter when Dad emptied the dishwasher ( an assumption that it was Dad ). We miss them looking over to see if we were home and watching TV. They took comfort in knowing they could reach out to us as well as direct neighbours. The little gate in our fence between our yards goes unused now. I also appreciated Dad visiting me in hospital a few times in 2005 when I was in for an extended illness. Life goes on for you with some great memories of wonderful parents.
Dear Mark, Rachael and Michael,
My thoughts are very much with you, that you will be gently helped to get through this such sad and difficult time.
I have so many lovely memories of Uncle David . He was one of the world’s special people, reaching out to so many with kindness and caring. He will always be remembered. So sorry I am unable to attend the funeral, but will be very much thinking of you all.
With much love, Susan.
Dear Rachael and Mark,
We have lost a dear friend. He was a mentor and had significant influence in our families lives during our 10 years at St Andrews in the 1970’s and later in Victoria. He was by far our favourite Minister and he meant so much to us.
We have fond memories of discussions & laughter with your Mom & Dad over the years. We always looked forward to meeting them at Cordova Bay Golf Course for lunches.
It will be an honour to attend your Father’s Celebration of Life on Thursday.
We share your loss.
Love & hugs,
Marilyn & Ken
Dear Rachael and Mark,
With a heavy heart, I pray for the external repose of one who was a man of distinguished humanity. I am honored and blessed to have known your father. May my friendship and prayers ease you both through this difficult time.
Marlene