DAVID JAMES MCCRACKEN

May 28, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of David James McCracken, 66, who died in a tragic accident at his beloved Sydenham Lake, a place that brought him immense joy and fulfilment.

David will be forever cherished by Sheila, his loving wife of 34 years, whom he affectionately called "Sweetpea." He was predeceased by his father, Carleton; and mother, Diane; his niece, Hedy Stamm; and nephew, Paul Davies. David will be deeply missed by his sisters, Wendy Davies (Jasper) and Tara Stamm; and his nieces and nephews, Sandy Davies, and Erika and Carter Stamm. He also leaves behind his sister-in-law, Jennifer Eastman (Larry); brother-in-law, David Guy (Philippa Barber); and late brother-in-law, Geoffrey Guy (Marin). His nieces and nephews, Will, Olivia, Charlie, Rebecca (Alex Gerlings), and Connor Guy will remember him affectionately.

Born and raised on a working farm in Nairn, Ontario, David learned the value of hard work, perseverance, and integrity - skills that would shape his character and guide him throughout his life. His parents were deeply influential in instilling these qualities in David. He and his parents had a strong bond.

He attended Lakefield College School, where his natural athleticism and love for hockey flourished. While David wasn't an honour roll student, he mastered the art of working smart.

David went on to graduate from Bishop's University, where he coined his famous "51 rule." This was his target grade in his early years, and any percentage earned over and above this was considered time wasted.

From there, he launched a successful career in the financial services industry. His career began at Deacon Hodgson, and continued at McCarthy Securities and Nesbitt Burns. In 1995, David, alongside a small group of like-minded partners, formed Newcrest Capital - a boutique investment bank. The firm's growth was a testament to the partners' entrepreneurial spirit. David often spoke of those years at Newcrest as the most rewarding of his working life. It was a time when he, and this group of tight-knit partners, bet on themselves, and built something meaningful from the ground up.

The love of his life was Sheila, his wife and best friend. Together, they shared a marriage filled with deep affection, adventure, and laughter. David and Sweetpea found joy in exploring the far corners of the world - climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, rafting the remote Tatshenshini and Firth Rivers, and beholding the wildlife of Rwanda and Kenya, to name only a few. They were always guided by a profound reverence for nature, and a special love for spirit bears, ospreys, and all wildlife.

David (Uncle Philly) was a cherished uncle who didn't just mentor, he entertained. Announcing "Daddy's here!," he held court from his favorite chair on the screened in porch at the cottage. David made sure everyone in his company laughed, listened, and never left without at least one new phrase to live by. His iconic voice and laugh could always be heard echoing across the lake.

David lived a rich and passionate life, guided by a deep appreciation for the things he loved. He had a varied range of interests, pursuing them with energy and devotion. He and Sheila were music enthusiasts, and found great joy in the energy of live performances. They visited some of the world's great venues, highlighted by The Ryman in Nashville. He was an avid fisherman, cyclist, and devout sports fan. He was also a proud and lifelong Buffalo Bills supporter and believed every year was going to be their year! He and Sheila shared a love of thoroughbreds with an active involvement in racing through Osprey Stables, which he formed with his closest friends. David also had a soft spot for dogs and cats, and adored the family cats, Cheddar, Ms. Dowie, Rupert, and Mallie.

David and Sheila quietly supported numerous individuals and organizations, offering generosity and kindness without seeking recognition. Their thoughtful and understated acts of giving reflected a shared commitment to helping others. Together, they made a significant impact on many, one quiet gesture at a time.

David spent his final day at Sydenham Lake - the place he loved most. We feel blessed this is where his life came to a close. David's love for Sydenham Lake reflected the way he lived - with a deep appreciation for nature, companionship, and the quiet beauty of life.

David's larger than life presence will be missed by so many. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, loyalty, and magical humour. He had a nickname for all those he knew. He will be missed as an epic storyteller. Many were fortunate to be included at one of his late night showings of "The Last Waltz."

To honour David, please raise a glass and toast a life well lived, "for medicinal purposes" of course. Please also consider a donation to the Toronto Wildlife Centre, a charity very close to David and Sheila's heart.
www.torontowildlifecentre.com/donate-in-honour/

David will be forever remembered, with love by many, but especially by his Sweetpea, and his cats, Cheddar and Ms. Dowie.

A private celebration of David has been arranged.