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David Barrington Emery

April 30th, 1950 - June 15th, 2024
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It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dave Emery on June 15, 2024, at the North Shore Hospice.

Dave was born in Cardiff, South Wales and grew up in Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan where he met and married his wife, Christine. They were married in 1973 and in 1989 they emigrated with their two young boys to Vancouver where Dave started working in heavy construction.

Dave had a deep passion for sports from a young age, playing rugby and soccer and excelling in swimming throughout his school years and continuing to swim passionately throughout his life. One of his achievements in High School was the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award which was presented to him at Buckingham Palace. He particularly enjoyed cheering on his favorite teams, Cardiff City Football Club and the Vancouver Canucks. His love for animals was evident, especially for his beloved dog, Herbie. Dave also enjoyed immersing himself in literature and had a keen interest in history, showcasing his extensive wealth of knowledge and wisdom that made him a trusted advisor within his family.

With a career spanning over 50 years in heavy construction including projects in Iran and Saudi Arabia, Dave was highly respected in his field, known for his mentorship and dedication. He was hard working and conscientious taking great pride in providing for his family and nurturing his community, often seen encouraging neighborhood children in their sports endeavors.

Dave was a well-traveled individual who greatly enjoyed sampling local beers from around the world. His warm presence and thoughtful guidance will be dearly missed by his wife of 51 years, Chris Emery, his sons Richard (Mallory) and Andrew (Jenna), his adored grandson Connor, his brother Harry (Freda), and numerous friends and family in the UK.

The family would like to thank Dr. Dana Haaf for all his caring support. We would also like to thank the Staff at Lionsgate Hospital, especially Dr. Anis Lakha for her kindness and understanding. The compassionate and professional care that was received at the North Shore Hospice was very much appreciated during Dave’s final days.

Additionally, the family would like to extend their gratitude to A Simple Cremation for all their assistance during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.

A celebration of Dave's life will be held on July 20th at 1pm at North Shore Alliance Church.

201 East 23rd St, North Vancouver.


Tributes

Ian David
July 23rd, 2024

Such a warm and enthusiastic welcome every time from Dave, from the first time I met Dave and Chris in Vancouver with Gill over 20 years ago. There was never any doubt that Dave cared greatly for his family and friends, such a generous spirit.
So sad not to be able to share some great food and a pint with you and Chris at the Blue Anchor and to hear that great laugh again.

Sending love to Chris and family, my thoughts are with you.

Rest in peace Dave.

Sarah Brennan nee Wing
July 22nd, 2024

Hearing of your passing I was extremely saddened not only as we enjoyed a trip down memory lane last year when you visited Wales and we managed to catch up talk about the old ways in Andrew Road my Dad and the family, but that this was so sudden. May you rest in peace my condolences to Chris and the family.

Amy Salisbury
July 21st, 2024

David was such a warm and generous person each time I met him. So genuine and full of interesting stories.
Very glad he had such a wonderful last few years with Chris and hoping he left us smiling with happy memories.

Kurban
July 19th, 2024

I will miss my friend dearly. He was a gentle soul. God bless David's souls with eternal peace.

Noel Soff
July 16th, 2024

Loving Tribute from Noel & Marian Soff & Children
Louise & Joey, Andrew & Jonathan Soff:
We got to know Dave & Christine following a business lead 15 years ago & we will forever cherish the memories and dealings we shared with Dave since then. It’s very sad Dave that you are no longer with us in person, but your spirit lives on in our hearts and our minds. You were a good, honest & trustworthy business colleague, so full of knowledge and a desire to always share your knowledge.
Dave, you were such a kind person always offering good advice and had such an irrepressible sense of humor. You always made us laugh & smile every time you came around to our home to visit. We now have to find courage and comfort in the depth of our grief at your loss.
You have left us with smiles, resilience, and a legacy of good memories. The bond we shared was such a precious gift to us all. Your demise was too quick Dave and we will miss you very much but you will always remain in our hearts.
I know you have lived the best life you could and are now with our Father in heaven.
Rest in peace dear friend.

Mebs and Shamshad
July 15th, 2024

We met Dave and Christine about a year ago. Though our time together was brief, we quickly came to love Dave’s true nature. He was authentic, kind, interesting, and intelligent, sharing many engaging stories from their experiences. We were looking forward to creating more memories with both Dave and Christine, but life had other plans. Dave will be tremendously missed and always remembered. We are committed to supporting Christine through this trying time and for the future, as she navigates this immense loss.

Kathy and Wayne Bergman
July 14th, 2024

Dear Chris and family we are truly saddened to hear this news of Dave's passing. Dave always put a smile on my face and we were always hoping that you were going to relocate to the Sunshine Coast one day! Take care and thoughts and prayers are with you!

Kathy and Wayne Bergman
July 13th, 2024

Dear Chris and family we are truly saddened to hear this news of Dave's passing. Dave always put a smile on my face and we were always hoping that you were going to relocate to the Sunshine Coast one day! Take care and thoughts and prayers are with you!

John Mayard
July 13th, 2024

We first met Dave and Christine in Saudi Arabia in the 80's and immediately became fast friends. No matter how much time passed between contacts it was so easy to pick up the conversation as though it were yesterday. We were looking forward to seeing Dave this month and are heartbroken and will miss him.
Rest in peace, dear friend, and remember the Alamo!
Dahleen and John Mayard

Jill gates Eric parry
July 12th, 2024

I first met Dave and Chris through Chris mum mary, as we worked together. My late husband, who was also a Dave ,got on very well .they both had similar interests...ie shooting old cars. Dave was also a call away if you need any advice as he new so much .we got lots of special memories with you both ,and we always look forward to you coming back home to Wales.when I lost my Dave ,Dave Emery rang from van every wk to check on our family,which is dave all over .thought full ..and kind both dave and Chris. We looked forward every year to you both coming home ,so we could spend time together. When I met Eric ,both of you welcomed him and got on so well..we have very fond memories of you both ❤️. Our thought and prayers are with you all .Chris,Richard Andrew. Love jill,Eric Bethan

Jan Toye
July 10th, 2024

So sad and sorry that Dave has passed away , known Chris all my life, she was our bridesmaid and she’d met Dave by then , even when they emigrated we kept in close touch . The last few years when they’ve been over , although for sad reasons , we’ve had many outings and visits and thoroughly enjoyed them . So sad that we won’t see Dave again, the world and us have lost a special friend and man . Will remember him with huge affection and laughs . God Bless Chris and boys ❤️

Ann Gunenc
July 10th, 2024

In loving memory of Dave, our beloved pickleball giant, and friend. Dave’s Towering present on the court often gave him the upper hand, especially against us short ladies. we will miss his kindness, playful spirit, and sense of humour. We’ll Always remember the joy and laughter he brought to our lives. Rest in peace, Dave ,we will miss you.

Bobbie
July 5th, 2024

Chris and family I had the pleasure of working with Dave for 2 years. I can still see his face light up when he talked about going home on days off, and when retirement came all the things he would do with his wife.
Dave was always the one at work with a kind word and a bright smile.
Every time I drive by Margit’s meat in Williams lake I think of Dave and his tales of his time in Williams lake.
The world needs more Dave’s, my heartfelt condolences to all his family and friends.

Georgie Reddington
July 5th, 2024

To Chris and family,
It’s pretty much 35 years ago that I met Chris and Dave. As a couple we had many similar events take place in our lives. Dave and my husband Graham had work connections and when we were first married we lived in Wales. Dave was a very well read person and could share his knowledge on just about anything! His love of sport was very important to him and often when I went over there was a game of soccer or hockey to watch. He was kind, thoughtful and would do anything to help. We used to have a little joke going because Chris and I would often have a walk in the afternoon and he would say “ so are you staying for dinner then?” He was so very brave and courageous at the end. I miss him!
Georgie❤️🙏

Ann Graves
July 5th, 2024

We met Dave and Chris and the boys on the soccer pitch, when the boys played for the North Vancouver teams. Dave and Rick became coaches and we have lots of great memories of the games.
Dave would help anyone that was in need.
I have had many fantastic times with Chris and Dave and great dinners with our friend Gloria always great times with laughter and fun.
My thoughts are now with Chris and the Boys

Tom Gates
July 5th, 2024

To Chris & family.
Thinking of you all during this difficult time. Dave was a great man, but especially husband , dad and grandad, a man of wise words, great humour but most of all a caring person. His words have always stuck with me when talking to me about my late farther.

Again thinking of you all and send love to you all
Tom, Beatriz & David ❤️❤️
RIP Dave , you'll be greatly missed

Kathy and Wayne Bergman
July 5th, 2024

Dear Chris and family we are truly saddened to hear this news of Dave's passing. Dave always put a smile on my face and we were always hoping that you were going to relocate to the Sunshine Coast one day! Take care and thoughts and prayers are with you!

Gloria Bychek
July 4th, 2024

I will always have fond memories of Dave Chris, Ann and I having dinner together. Amazing food loads of laughs and being very blessed to have these wonderful people in my life. It was an honour and a pleasure to know you Dave. It's not good bye my friend. See you on the flip side. Love you Lots and Lots. 💕💕💕💕💕

Brian & Kay Welwood
July 4th, 2024

I first met Dave 47 years ago on a soccer/rugby field (cow pies all over) near Kapurchal, Iran. He could see that I had no idea how to play rugby and took me under his wing. He was in Iran on single status, living in a camp and my wife, Kay said that we should have him come for dinner on our day off. We became friends and hooked up again when he and Chris and the boys came to the North Shore. We felt that we knew Chris already as she had been sending us Christmas Cards for several years even though she had never met us.
Dave and I played racquetball for years with another friend, John (the 3 Balderos) and I'm quite sure I never beat him. He was a very good athlete and a good sport. Occasionally he would try to let me win until I called him on it and he would reel off 10 straight points to put the game away.
Dave was very good at keeping in touch and letting his friends know that he valued them.
We'll miss you, Dave!

paul & susan cox
July 4th, 2024

We were neighbours of Chris and Dave's for 12 years .. we met Dave the first morning they moved in next door, Christmas Eve .. he came over and asked if we could fill his coffee pot with water to make coffee .. no furniture had been delivered and apparently they had no water.. we insisted the family come for dinner and the rest is history .. (I think we went over the next day and played Playstation with the kids on the floor)

We have such fond memories of Dave through all those years ., watched the boys grow, them having international students, Dave coaching hockey, coming to neighbourhood parties. enjoying Mary and Stormy every summer, long weekends at our cabin, halloween fireworks and more ... really good times ❤️


Rest in peace Dave, we'll miss you ❤️

Kathy and Wayne Bergman
July 4th, 2024

Dear Chris and family we are truly saddened to hear this news of Dave's passing. Dave always put a smile on my face and we were always hoping that you were going to relocate to the Sunshine Coast one day! Take care and thoughts and prayers are with you!

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