J. DAVID HOLMES

(July 11, 1935 - August 16, 2025) With heavy hearts and an abundance of love, we share that our precious Dave passed away on Saturday, August 16, 2025. Dave fought valiantly to survive a tragic fall on May 25th, which resulted in a severe brain injury and its attendant complications. Dave was the beloved, cherished husband and best friend of Lynda; loving Dad to his sons, John Andrew and Jeffrey David (Diane); and the proudest Grandpa Dave to his grandson, Daniel. Dave was predeceased by his parents, Sidney and Dorothy (Kerfoot) Holmes; and his sisters, Ann Falls and Margaret Holmes. A true North Toronto guy, Dave attended Bedford Park Public School and Lawrence Park Collegiate, followed by his graduation from Ryerson Institute of Technology in Mechanical Engineering. Dave was always delighted to share tales of adventures in his Mount Pleasant /Lawrence neighbourhood, each time told with gusto and joy. Dave's engineering and leadership skills were exemplified throughout his careers with Link Belt, Dominion Engineering, Rockwell International and the Ontario Association of Engineering Technicians and Technologists, where he retired in 2000 as their Registrar and Acting Executive Director. In recognition of his outstanding volunteer service commitment of over 50 years with Scouts Canada, ranging from pack scouter, service scouter, trainer to deputy and assistant Regional Commissioner, Dave was awarded the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal. In retirement, Lynda and Dave loved exploring unique adventure spots. In particular, they enjoyed the Cotswolds, the Galapagos, South Africa, Costa Rica and their favourite, the Camino de Santiago. They also loved hiking, canoeing and Scottsdale. Dave was a true gentleman, a man of flawless integrity, compassion, and joy. The family extends heartfelt thanks to Acclaim Health (Patty's Place, Jim Suites and the Mississauga Club) for the outstanding programmes they provided for Dave. In grateful appreciation to the Alzheimer Society of Toronto, a very special shout out goes to Kristin and Tracey for the many lifelines of "staying in the moment" energy. Donations in Dave's honour to either of these programmes would be most welcomed. Cremation has taken place. Arrangements in the care of Turner & Porter Yorke Chapel. You have fought the good fight. You have finished the race. Well done. Rest in peace, Dave. You are so loved.