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
26 Responses
David, and my Aunt Chrissie were Scotland’s loss and Canada’s gain. Be grateful.
Gordon and Audrey fae Dundee.
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
Blair, condolences on your Dad’s passing. He was a wonderful guy. Thinking of you, Ann and your Mum during this tough time.
Joel
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
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
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
Alan, Sheila and Sarah Hodgson extend deepest sympathies to the Philip family for the loss of David Philip. We were privileged to know him first as a friend and also as a fine professional. David will be sorely missed by his community of friends.
Your Name
Alan, Sheila & Sarah Hodgson
Sa gentillesse, sa bonne humeur, son sens de l’humour, son charme, vont beaucoup nous manquer. Merci David…
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
Je trouve David était très gentil et pleine de gentillesse. Il me manque.