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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.