A longtime resident of the Old Nanaimo Highway, for over 60 years, died at the age of 92 from a stroke.
He was born on the family farm in Vigonovo, Italy. Like so many young men after WWII, David was lured by a Railroad contract. After 6 months of bugs and mud above Churchill, Manitoba, he wanted to go home. Especially after a run in with huge dogs (Polar Bears). His friends said, "No, come to Vancouver with them, it's beautiful there". He agreed to only a quick visit, but he met June. She taught him English while he washed dishes at Wimpy's Cafe and she waited on tables. The rest was history and he wasn't going back.
He and June were small village kids and the big city wasn't a great fit. A friend who worked in Port Alberni said to come here because there are lots of jobs for immigrants. McMillan Bloedel was a good company to work for. In 1955, he and his young family joined many others who came for a better life.
Dave considered his MB years his best years. He started at Sarita/Franklin setting chokers, then moved to Sproat Lake. In 1960, he had a bad car accident and MB moved him to APD and finally to Somass Division. Dave retired in 1991 on his 65th birthday as a lumber grader. He was known as a hardworking, quiet man, but not to be messed with.
In retirement, he and June took great joy in their motley crew of grandkids; always willing to lend a hand, which their children were grateful for. Dave loved Humphrey Bogart, western movies, and making wine. He took pride in a well cut lawn and a tidy yard. Dad was a dependable father who could not stand for any nonsense. He was the Boss.
Predeceased by wife June in 1999 and son Christopher in 2016.
Survived by children: Mara Carniel; Steven (Nanci) Reid, and Tom (Trina) Reid; grandchildren Sean (James) Greenard, Matthew Reid, Anthony and Richard Gollino; great-grandchildren Makayla and Mason Greenard; daughter-in-law Tracy Carniel, as well as nieces and nephews in USA, Canada, Italy and France.
Thank you for the last 10 years of care Dr. Arno Kitshoff and Dr. Vincent Sutcliffe gave him. A big thank you to the wonderful nurses and care aids at WCGH and Fir Park Village during his short stay.
Cremation has taken place. A private family service will take place in the spring.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Food Bank or Bread of Life.
Memories and condolences can be shared with the family at www.chapelofmemories.ca