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David TASI Obituary

DAVID TASI February 13, 1963 - November 26, 2022 David Tasi, of Toronto, prepared and enjoyed his very last, a perfectly-brewed cup of coffee, on November 18 in Victoria, BC, at age 59, two very content years into retirement. Known for his keen intellect, David effortlessly cruised through the gifted program in school, and went on to dabble in aviation before settling into a career at the Ford Motor Company in Oakville, a suitable choice for someone who loved cars. Classic motorcycles were another passion. He spent years working on his beloved 1977 Honda 750, the envy of many a King West hipster. On the side, he earned a certificate in accounting. It surely contributed to him discovering a multi-year error by Revenue Canada, which resulted in a substantial tax refund. David's long and successful career at Ford was only rivaled by his career as a bon-vivant which began modestly, sneaking out of Appleby College to the only Oakville bar that would serve 15-year-olds. It culminated in Toronto, where he could be found having dinner and making friends at the bar in any one of Toronto's top restaurants. Known as one of the greatest tippers of all time, he never met a server, fellow patron, or a negroni with a beer on the side, that he didn't like. David carried on his appreciation of fine food in Victoria, where meals were made better by the company of his much-loved mom. He loved his healthy lifestyle in Victoria and the city's natural beauty and vistas. Enjoying the outdoors became part of his daily routine. David, who succumbed to injuries sustained in a slip and fall accident, is survived by his mother, Eta Tasi Hall; sister, Mary Tasi Baker and family; and a large family of friends he chose. He will be remembered as a smart, stylish, generous and infinitely sociable man, who never failed to demonstrate how much he loved his people. In lieu of flowers, donations to Doctors without Borders in David's memory are appreciated.

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Published by The Globe and Mail from Dec. 10 to Dec. 14, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for David TASI

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26 Entries

Mila Banerjee

June 24, 2023

I am met David in his neighborhood - I lived there too but no one knew the bars, restaurants and people like David. David love to eat at the bar and masterfully would strike up a conversation with staff and the people around him. This is how we met and that day he was convinced I wasn´t enjoying my other friends company!

David was also a beautiful contradiction- he knew everyone and was so social but was also a lone wolf and wanted to focus on one friend at a time. I loved his laugh, his random opinions, and how much he loved to explore details. Cheese, coffee, cocktails, clothing, sunglasses, and motorcycles.

David was generous - when I was learning to ride a motorcycle he took me for a lesson with his precious vintage Honda. I was so petrified I would wreck his baby but he just kept telling me to give it more gas! And then he took it apart right after. For years it was in pieces and I joked it was because I rode it.

He also loved cars - but not typical cars. He continued to tell me stories years later of how much fun he had when he borrowed my mini cooper. David- 6´4", zipping around for a week, in a little white mini cooper. When you picture it you see his big contagious smile.

I miss you my friend and will continue to think about you, and the mark your stories and principles made on me.

Tara

February 11, 2023

David and I met randomly some 15 years ago. We became friends out of proximity as we always lived within three blocks of each other. He was a somewhat private person, but it never stopped him from making friends wherever he went. He loved great restaurants and good food. Over the years I came to know David as someone who had refined tastes in all aspects of life. Aside from classic motorcycle gear and tools, which took up all his storage space, he was a minimalist - before it was cool. And every item he possessed was so carefully chosen. He really knew how to live. Among other things, I appreciated his style.
One day he asked me if I would like to be the second card holder on his Costco account. I accepted his proposal and from that moment on, we were spouses in the eyes of Costco. Every year it was a competition to see who would spend the most and get us over the cash back threshold that would pay for the next year´s membership. Not unlike a real marriage, there could be a lot of bickering going on, which was easily outweighed by the heart we had for one another.
David´s intellect made him a great conversationalist and problem solver. And he could count on me to bring him problems. It began with the car - he was a car expert - so he could figure out what was up with mine. I´m afraid to say, from fixing the car, things escalated. One time I asked him to help me tear out some built in seating in my kitchen and replace it with cabinets. Poor David wasted three days of his life building Ikea while the dog and I supervised and ordered pizza. When I asked him to replace my thermostat he said no, "I draw the line at anything electrical." Fair enough. The final problem he solved for me was my kitchen door swing that was no longer swinging shut all the way. I managed to get in one last task before he left me for Victoria (the city).
David was very generous. Most importantly, he was generous with his words. He would randomly call me up to say something nice about me to me, adding "I don´t think you hear it enough, so I´m going to say it." Many times he would say how much he appreciated me lending him my backyard to work on his bike, and my dog to keep him company. I will miss his kind words and many acts of kindness. It really is true that love is demonstrated through actions. I´ll miss the back and forth of kind gestures. My sincere condolences to Eta and the rest of the family, and to all of you who had the good fortune to know him. David was the best and his love will live on within us all.

Dianna

December 23, 2022

I remember Dave from numerous yacht club parties and other fun gatherings and events back in the day. Dave was a kind, intelligent person, with a great sense of humour who always had something interesting to say. My sincere condolences to the Tasi family and his many close friends.

Andre DaCosta

December 22, 2022

One of my favourite pictures of David is from a visit to Charleston South Carolina in 2003, were I lived at the time. I was scheduled to attend a wine tasting at a restaurant on the Atlantic Ocean called The Boathouse
David attended with me , and by the end of the evening he had seamlessly, made many new friends, and of course had amazing stories. Long after his visit ended , my friends would say,
" Hey where´s your buddy David , is he coming to dinner next week?" I laughed and said , no he´s from Toronto , and was just visiting, They would look at me bewildered, and say , " Oh I thought he was a local ?"
David just had that level of charm , wit which was intertwined with a dry sense of humour and , of course intelligent conversation. I believe this is what made him a "local" wherever he travelled. Along with his infectious laugh, that cheered up everyone around him.
The spirited conversations are certainly what I will miss most. We continued conversing right up to the Friday before he left us. David was making plans for to come visit and we were going to attend a dinner in Toronto.
Although writing this is sad, I choose to remember the good times with David. Flashing back to that evening in Charleston in 2003 , he remained poised in 30 degree weather and 100% humidity at a packed function.

And held his wine glass perfectly.......

Andre DaCosta

December 22, 2022

One of my favourite pictures of David is from a visit to see me in Charleston South Carolina in 2003, were I lived at the time. I was scheduled to attend a wine tasting at a restaurant on the Atlantic Ocean called the boathouse.
David attended with me , and by the end of the evening he had seamlessly made many new friends, and of course had amazing stories. Long after his visit ended , my friends would say, " Hey where´s your buddy David, is he coming to dinner next week?"
I laughed and said , no he´s from Toronto, he was just visiting . They would look at me bewildered and say ," Oh I thought he was a local?

David just had that level of charm and wit, intertwined with a dry sense of humour and intelligent conversation. I believe this is what made him a "local" wherever he travelled. Along with his infectious laugh, that cheered up everyone around him.
The spirited conversations are certainly what I will miss most. We continued conversing right up to the Friday before he left us. He was making plans for to come visit , and we were going to attend a dinner in Toronto.
Although writing this is sad, I choose to remember the good times with David. Flashing back to Charleston in 2003 , he remained poised in 30 degree weather and 100% humidity.

And held his wine glass perfectly.......

Christina Carr

December 22, 2022

My friend David, i just discovered you Sept 2021, and we have talked on the phone and txt almost everyday since then. You were so kind, smart, thoughtful, positive, empathetic, and funny. Seems i would mention something on the phone and within a day i would be receiving a link to point me in some forward moving direction. A link you had taken the time to research, after even a passing comment. I miss my daily shots of your morning walkabout view, and hearing what cool spot you were hitting that day. Your love of watermelon, tomato, feta and mint salad, ranks just behind your love of coffee, shrimp cocktails, cocktails themselves, and your motorcycle. You seemed so happy and so proud to be in Victoria, with your sweet mom, your most beloved human, and to have set yourself up in retirement- "i just got lucky"- you would say, but you did it.
I am sad we wont go to that hotel in Budapest, or the Ace hotel you were so excited about. But i went to toast to you, and know that you are everywhere now, its just now, I have to pick up the tab!!

Miss you, love you.

Your friend,

Christina

Christina Carr

December 22, 2022

Christina Carr

December 22, 2022

Christina Carr

December 22, 2022

My friend David, i just discovered you Sept 202, and we have talked on the phone and txt almost everyday since then. You were so kind, smart, thoughtful, positive, empathetic, and funny. Seems i would mention something on the phone and within a day i would be receiving a link to point me in some forward moving direction. A link you had taken the time to research too help and inform. I miss my daily shots of your morning walkabout view, and hearing what cool spot you were hitting that day and what was on the menu! Your love of watermelon, tomato, feta and mint salad, ranks just behind your love of coffee, shrimp cocktails cocktails themselves, and of course your motorcycle. You seemed so happy and so proud to be in Victoria, with your sweet mom, your most beloved human, and to have set yourself up in retirement- "i just got lucky"- you would say, but you did it.
I am sad we wont go to that hotel in Budapest, or the Ace hotel you were so excited about. But i went to toast to you, and know that you are everywhere now, its just now, I have to pick up the tab!!

Miss you, love you.

Your friend,

Christina

Shawn Liverpool

December 19, 2022

I'm so sorry for the family and their loss. David was the big brother I never had. We served our apprenticeship together but it felt like I apprenticed under him in life. He dragged me into adulthood and sent me on course to be where I am today. Carpooling every day for 15 years, I hung on every word. I miss those words, his advice, and his unwavering friendship. Love you brother

Deb Doncaster

December 19, 2022

Wishing the Tasi family and friends peace and love. David´s smile and good nature will live on in all of us. Xo Deb Doncaster

Lisa Wilhelm

December 19, 2022

I will remember Dave´s beautiful smile, his humour and his ability to put people at ease with his wise advice. My deepest condolences to Dave´s mom, sister, family and friends.

Anna Marie Kalcevich

December 18, 2022

I knew Dave through work, Pasquale Brothers.
He was a regular, every other Friday morning. Had the pleasure of meeting his mother and sister over the years. I retired at the start of covid, didn't know he also retired and moved to BC. Wonderful man, condolences to his family. Had discriminating taste in good food.

Michele

December 18, 2022

My condolences to family and friends. Dave was far too young. I have fond memories of him from years ago. Much love. Michele

Jacques

December 15, 2022

So much material and so little time ... Miss you every Day.... Nothing like the drive before I moved to LA doing Donuts in the snow. Coming outta I think it was called the brass rail! So many memories!

David Alton

December 14, 2022

One of my favorite people in one of his favorite places, sitting on a cool bike. I met David Tasi in high school. We hit it off immediately and shared a lifetime of friendship. I was one of David's many suburban friends and was always happy to see Tasi roll up, often on his way to or from work. There were so many Dave's (early 60's kids) that last names were mandatory to avoid confusion. We would tinker on the bikes or the cars, often performing some new miracle repair that we thought was impossible. David was tenacious and a good mechanic. He would work on a problem until it was done. Not just done, but done right. We often ended up sitting on my porch, having a quiet chat about life over a coffee or a cool drink. I always felt better after a Tasi visit. His smile and good disposition were infectious. Those were such precious times, times that I missed when he retired to Victoria two years ago.
I am thinking of his mother Eta and family as I picture David riding his bike west into the sunset.

Catharine Doncaster

December 14, 2022

Catharine Doncaster

December 14, 2022

Catharine Doncaster

December 14, 2022

Catharine Doncaster

December 14, 2022

Dearest David, You have been one of my favourite people since we first met in the 80s. When I think of you, I hear your laughter and see your smile. We had a lot of laughs along the way, but your intellect and ability to engage in deep, meaningful conversation never failed to astound me. I still cannot believe we will not be growing old together, and am trying to reconcile exactly how to navigate life without your calls and texts, your sage advice and insight. You could always be counted on for an honest, straight shooting opinion, which I admired and needed. You were a confidante and trusted companion. Thank you for your friendship David. Thank you for being interesting and interested. I love you. Always have. Always will. Doncaster

Dominika Kobylecka-Harrietha

December 13, 2022

David was a remarkable and important person in my life. Full of knowledge and incredible advice, which helped me make some of the most important decisions that have shaped me over the years. From being a friend to becoming my "God Father" David always managed to brighten my day, feed me before work or show me how much of a professional he became at making the perfect espresso. His witty texts and a keen sense of humor made it impossible to hold onto a negative emotion. His laugh fixed everything! Brunches,lunches, and dinners. Mushroom risottos, roast potatoes and flattened chicken. Cleaning out motorcycle pistons in his living room. Rain clouds and city walks. Endless texts. Chasing sunsets and photos of yachts. All of this will forever remind me of how blessed I was to have been able to be a part of his life and how he so beautifully graced mine.

I will uphold all of our plans and promises in hopes to somehow fill the giant hole in my heart.
Until next time, my friend.
I love you,
D

Grove of 100 Memorial Trees

Mary, Sierra and Wade

Planted Trees

Jay smith

December 10, 2022

David was a great and kind friend. He´ll be dearly missed. He was always there to help and guide you when you thought you just couldn´t do it. It was an inspiration. I also had an addiction to motorcycles. I ended up buying a third one. Only because of David´s guidance. One week before David´s passing he came over to help me adjust the carb one last time. Finally, we solved it he was so happy and it wasn´t even his motorcycle.

Edward Mryka

December 9, 2022

I worked with David Tassi for many years at the Ford truck plant paint shop . David was a person that I respected very much . I remember just before I retired I was was talking to him about his plans to retire to move out west.He ask me to come visit him . Sorry David I never made it . My condolences to to his mother . He used to talk to me about his mother all the the time.

Mark Pacuta

December 9, 2022

Very sorry for your loss. I can only imagine your sorrow as I am very saddened by David´s passing. I worked with him for 15 years at Ford and had many great laughs and times. His intelligent conversation and sharp wit made for great discussions on long night shifts.
Was great watching his excitement and passion on his bike rebuild and showing us new parts for his bike and discussing how he was modifying them to improve the performance. He loved that bike and put a lot of himself into it.
I got a chance last summer to visit him in Victoria and was so happy for him in retirement. He showed me the city as only David could. All the great restaurants and spots he loved. Drove to the coast and mountains, while talking about all the details that made the area beautiful. He really was enjoying his retirement life there. I think of him every day and only wish I could have visited him again. Will miss him.
Mark

Scott Reddam

December 9, 2022

To a life well lived . So sorry to see you go . My sincere condolence to David's mother , sister and family .

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