Dr. David Stewart Philip, 83, passed away peacefully at home in Victoria on March 21st, 2016.
David was born in Dundee, Scotland to David Stewart Philip and Williamina Kinnoch Smart Philip on February 2nd, 1933. He attended the Harris Academy in Dundee where he met Chris, his future wife of nearly 59 years. He was School Captain, graduating with honours in 1950. He went on to earn a degree in dentistry from St. Andrews University with post-graduate studies in children’s dentistry and oral surgery. He was President of The British Dental Students Association from 1956 to 1957.
A year after their marriage in 1957, David and Chris emigrated to Victoria. He built his first dental practice in Colwood which pioneered innovative technologies, business practices and superlative dental care. He had a branch practice at Royal Oak.
His profound belief in lifelong education led to continued studies and certification in implantology and aesthetic dentistry. He was an accredited member of The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry from 1993 after four years of study and presentations. He was Chairman of Accreditation of the AACD in 1996. He lectured in cosmetic dentistry across Canada on behalf of The Aurum Group.
Over his lifetime, David belonged to numerous charitable organizations, sports clubs, academic and community institutions. He joined the Oak Bay Cricket Club in 1958, later becoming President of the Victoria and District Cricket Association. He had a long affiliation with the Castaways Rugby Club. He was a member of the Langford Lion’s Club in the early 60s. He had appointments to several professional committees. David was Chairman of the Oak Bay Parks and Recreation Committee from 1976 to 1982, Chairman of Camosun College Board of Directors 1989-1990. He was extremely proud of having established the Camosun College Certified Dental Assistant Program. In 1990, he was appointed to the University of Victoria Board of Governors and was UVIC Board Chairman from 1993 to 1995.
Latterly, undeterred by unreliable health, he was an active member of The Oak Bay Rotary Club, annually making and selling candy floss at The Oak Bay Tea Party, somewhat countering dental advice he would give at his practice on Oak Bay Avenue.
David was a member of The Royal Colwood Golf Club, The Victoria Golf Club and The Union Club of British Columbia.
David was predeceased by his beloved son, John. He is survived by his loving wife, Chris; his devoted sons, David and Blair (Ann) and John’s daughter, Capri Philip.
The Philip family will be forever grateful for the exceptional care David received over many years. We particularly thank Dr. David E. Bell, Dr. Kenneth Yvorchuk, Dr. Rene Weir and the many nurses and physicians at The Jubilee Hospital. We are also truly thankful to our many wonderful friends, both near and far for their loving support.
A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Monday, March 28th at McCall’s Funeral Home at 1400 Vancouver Street at Johnson Street with The Rev. Dr. Eugen Bannerman officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the BC Heart & Stroke Foundation (heartandstroke.bc.ca).
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall’s Funeral Home
www.mccallbros.com
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Dr. Don Shorting
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Lisa I was privileged to have had Dr. Philip as my orthodontist when I was 12 years old and my dentist for more years than I can remember. I can honestly say that he made dental appointments bearable, as he had a very special way of putting me at ease. I will fondly remember his sense of humour, gentleness, and cheerfulness. My sincere and deepest condolences to the family. He will be missed.
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Uma Dear David,
I will miss you dearly…
You have always welcomed me into your beautiful home whether if your son was there or not ;P
I absolutely love your presence, warmth and generosity. Always wishing me well, and always encouraging me to do better. Your great advices when I was moving to BC were so precious. J’adore dialoguer avec ‘toi’ (pcq fallait pas utiliser vous) et toujours en dégustant un bon single malt. Je vous adore tout simplement! May you rest in peace my West Coast Dad… with all my love.
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Peter Chapman My sincere sympathy to the entire family. I have fond memories of starting the SCOPE nightclub in 1965 with Dave, Roger Ross and Ron Campion as partners. Dave was a solid influence when I was only 25 – I’m sorry that I did not maintain contact over the years. Best wishes to you all.
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Avalon Beckman My thought go to you Chris and your family at this time, I knew David though Dr Emerson and he always was a happy person.
Sincere condolences
Avalon Beckman
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Alison Cuddy Blair,
All my sympathy and love to you and Ann on your Dad’s passing. I remember lots of laughs with him and your Mom at your wedding celebrations. Glad you were both able to spend time with him recently. My condolence to Chris and David.
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Rob and Noni Clark Chris. So sorry to hear of David’s passing. Looking back over the years we have wonderful memories of the times we spent with you and David.
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Dick Hales PS I echo Jim Goddard’s reference to 242 as he was also known to many of us . May he rest in peace. Dick Hales
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Dick Hales To the gentle Scotsman who made all our lives a little brighter and more meaningful because he was part of it. Forever in our hearts and will be missed terribly. Condolences to Chris and the boys . Dick Hales
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Fraser and Lee Lindsay We offer our deep sympathy to you, Chris, and to David and Blair. You were all such good neighbours back in the Belmont days. Sincerely, Fraser and Lee
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Monica Vaz Pereira Dear David,
This time I want to wish you and your family strength.
Believe that time helps to move on…
Take care my friend and all the best for you.
Love you
Monica
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Carol Vincent What a lovely man — never have I enjoyed going to a dentist so much! Dr. Philip’s big-hearted personality, whistling and singing, and his very caring attitude made it a real pleasure to see him.
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Robin Baird David Philip was a complex and fascinating person who was more influential than he might have realised on those of us who knew him when we were young. I shall always remember him fondly while lamenting that such models are no longer rolling off the celestial assembly line. With love and sympathy to all the family.
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Jim Goddard As an employee of the Victoria Golf Club in the 80’s, and new to Victoria I was blessed to witness Dr. Philip’s warmth, humour,and humanity. Qualities that he passed along to his fine sons. I feel fortunate to have known him. My sincere condolences to the Philip family. Adieu 242.
If there’s another world, he lives in bliss;
If there is none, he made the best of this.
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Peter Mc Keon Dear Chris, David Jr and Blair,
So sorry for your loss. I remember David as a loyal friend, the finest professional, an amazing human being with a huge heart and strong spirit. I will never forget his sense of fun and zest6 for life. David was the best of the best. I write through my tears and a heavy heart I miss him too.
Love and condolences
Peter
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Norm and Carol Davis Norm and Carol Davis 25 March 2016 Our sincere sympathy to you Chris, and your Sons, on David’s passing. May you find peace in your wonderful memories. Our thoughts go with you.
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Gordon Kemp David, and my Aunt Chrissie were Scotland’s loss and Canada’s gain. Be grateful.
Gordon and Audrey fae Dundee.
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John and Josie Schofield Dear Chris:
Our sincere condolences to you and the family. David’s energy and charm will be remembered in all the spheres in which he made so many contributions, not least Victoria cricket where we knew him best.
John and Josie Schofield
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Joel Bryan Blair, condolences on your Dad’s passing. He was a wonderful guy. Thinking of you, Ann and your Mum during this tough time.
Joel
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hilary David, I’m so sorry to hear about your father’s death. I never got over the passing of my father, but I remember him in so many ways. Save the mementos that are special to you! Je t’embrasse très fort! xo hilary
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Jane Van Sickle David,
I’m so sorry to hear about your dad. He was an accomplished and wonderful man. My deepest sympathy to you and your family at this time.
love
Jane
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Natalie Dear David,
My sincerest condolences and sadness. I have fond memories of your Dad; I remember the dinner we had on the Mercury many years ago and your Mom telling me how he would always keep her in “butter” (such a cute story), and the wonderful dinner Uma and I had with you all in the Summer of 2012.
He was a wonderful man and sending my love during this difficult time.
Love Natalie
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Sherry et Jacques Sa gentillesse, sa bonne humeur, son sens de l’humour, son charme, vont beaucoup nous manquer. Merci David…
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Janet baird Dear Chris, David and BlaIr,
The Baird Family is in mourning, along with many others, at the sad news of David’s departure. But what a journey he had! He accomplished so much, contributed so much and through pure grit, tried his best to live forever. What a character!!! A legend in his own time.Our thoughts are with you. Let’s go for a memorial dinner at the golf club to celebrate a life well lived. Will call you in the near future to make the arrangements.
Big hugs,
Janet
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Patricia Je trouve David était très gentil et pleine de gentillesse. Il me manque.
David was one of the great ones despite having been born a Scot! He definitely “gave more than he received” and his great sense of humour, warmth and wisdom enriched many lives including mine.