Tribute

Dave passed peacefully at his home on the Cowichan River, age 94 years.  He leaves his wife of 69 years, Kathie, daughter Ann (Gordon), son John (Jen) and grandchildren Bryan and Chelsea.

Born in Vancouver, he was working by age 16.  But thanks to his older sister, who enrolled him in night school, he completed a high school diploma, then a degree in Chemistry from U.B.C. and finished with a dental degree from McGill University in Montreal.  His love of learning however, never did end.  Whether he was helping grandchildren with homework, delving further into someone’s university studies or researching a friend’s health, he found interest in a multitude of subjects.

In 1958, with a dental degree in hand, Dave and Kathie returned west and found work in Lake Cowichan.  Originally a two year plan, Dave retired in 1997 after close to 40 years in practice.  Thanks to incredible staff and hundreds of patients that meant the world to Dave, seldom was there a day that he didn’t walk to work happy and return the same way.  To be greeted with laughter and hugs at a dental office was a unique quality to “Dr. Dave’s” Lake Cowichan office.

Outside of the dental office, Dave had a second to none passion for life.  One that he shared with his family and the many friends who became family.  Whether his adventures took him exploring the world, exploring the Lake area on bike or kayak, exploring the coastal waters in the old tug or exploring every run on Mount Washington, he did so with a zest for life that has left an indelible impression on us all.

And so we say good-bye to a man who lived a wonderful life, surrounded by people he loved and who loved him back.  May he continue to be an inspiration!

The family would like to send their heartfelt thanks to Dr. David Froese for his professional guidance and friendship.

Due to the impact of Covid-19, the family will delay a celebration of life to a later date.