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Dave MacKinnon Obituary
He was predeceased by his wife, Dorothy (nee Poole), his parents, John and Mary Ann MacKinnon, his sisters, Alice and Margie and his brothers, James, Alban and Aelred (Mac).
Dave was the consummate working man, spending most of his early years at various jobs including a nickel mine in Sudbury, a logging camp "somewhere" and trawler fishing out of PEI and Nova Scotia. He went on to have a fulfilling career as a union rep in Cape Breton, Newfoundland and BC and retired after spending many years as an Industrial Relations Officer with the BC Ministry of Labour.
Dave was passionate about a number of things - most of all his family and his home on MacKinnon's Point. He was always there for us in times of need, quick to offer advice (whether or not we followed it!). He made sure to attend soccer and lacrosse games no matter what the weather. His other loves would all tie for a close second - playing cards, a good feed of lobster and the NDP. And above all, he loved a good party, surrounded by family, friends, musicians and lots of food. We love you and we will forever miss you, Dad/Dave/David/Grampie Dave. You gave us so much - adventure, unpredictability, entertainment, and most of all your guidance and your love. For those things, we are all truly grateful.
His instructions to us were: "Now, have a big party to celebrate my passing because I had a hell of a great time while I was here". So, we will be having a celebration of life for Dave starting at 1 p.m. on Sunday, February 21st, 2016 at the Firefighters Club, 6515 Bonsor Ave., Burnaby.
Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the Heart and/or Kidney/Renal program at St. Paul's Hospital Foundation at www.helpstpauls.com/donate/tribute-giving.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
18 Entries
March 2, 2016
To all David's family and Maureen!
I just want to say my Mom taught the world of all you guys and frequently visited MacKinnon's point. Maureen thanks so much for being there for us when Mom (Mildred) passed away. At this time, I would like to extend my sympathy to you and all your beautiful family.
You have my sympathy,
Marleen
Mildred Campbell with her grandchildren
Marleen Clark (CAMPBELL)
March 2, 2016
Anthony Scoggins
February 21, 2016
I have many fond memories of Dave from tumultuous times together in Cape Breton in 1980. He was a mountain amongst men - it was an honour and a pleasure to work with him. I was an apprentice to a Master. My sincere condolences to his loved ones.
earl sunshine
February 21, 2016
Will their be a service in Vancouver
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Lenore Clemens
February 20, 2016
Sincere condolence to your family and close friends. From the short time I was privileged to know you, during Jenny Kwan's campaign, I can imagine how much they will miss you. Your never-ending stories & knowledge, sense of humour, and kindness to others will always stay with me. Thank you for all you gave.
Marco
February 20, 2016
Dave was truly a great guy with a lot of practical history behind him--especially in helping people and organizing for a freer more egalitarian and sustainable world. Really enjoyed working with him on NDP election campaigns. This is truly a saddening loss.
Jenny Kwan, MP for Van East
February 20, 2016
Thank you Dave for your dedication to the progressive movement. I am forever grateful to you for your incredible hard work, diligence and guidance during one of the longest federal election campaign in Canadian history. My deepest condolences to Susan and the family. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Bill Tieleman
February 20, 2016
Dave MacKinnon was one of the most dedicated advocates for workers that I've ever met - and a former federal NDP president, an NDP candidate, a union activist and a wonderful person.
Dave was an enormous help to me when I was at the BC Federation of Labour and beyond because of his enormous knowledge of the Employment Standards Act - the rules that try to protect non-union workers in BC. Dave was an Industrial Relations Officer for many years in the Ministry of Labour and continued to be an advocate for workers afterwards.
I am in sad shock. Dave will be sorely missed by all his many friends across Canada - my deep condolences to his family.
Jane Shin
February 20, 2016
Your love for life and work for a better society will be missed and remembered Dave.
Conni Kilfoil
February 19, 2016
Working with Dave in the NDP was very fun and gratifying.We have lost a great worker and friend.Condolences to Dave's wonderful family.
Joe Byrne
February 19, 2016
Dave's dedication and commitment to building stronger communities and a better country will continue to inspire many.
Tom Beasley
February 18, 2016
A passionate protector of vulnerable workers; a feisty and focused Industrial Relations Officer
Nick Volkow
February 18, 2016
A worker and worker's friend. I'll hoist a couple in your memory brother.
Glen Clark
February 18, 2016
Very sorry to hear about Dave's passing. He was a very good man who cared deeply about others and was always there to fight the good fight. my deepest sympathies to the family.
Nick Volkow
February 18, 2016
A worker and worker's friend. I'll hoist a few in your memory brother.
John Fryer
February 18, 2016
My sincere condolences to Dave's family upon his passing. Dave was a great guy who fought all his life for working people. It was both a pleasure and a privelege to have worked with him at the BCGEU. He will be long remembered and I shall always treasure his feisty at times friendship. Rest in peace brother--you have paid your dues.
February 18, 2016
Thinking of you all. Gerard and Charlotte
February 18, 2016
Big Dave - you were larger than life itself! So sad to hear about your passing. Thinking of everyone and I'll be with you in my heart at Dave's Celebration of Life.
Love Joan (Henderson) Gajadharsingh
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