David GRATTON

GRATTON, David Matthew
June 19, 1981 – June 16, 2014
With hearts broken, family and friends bid goodbye to Dave who left us tragically on June 16, 2014. He will be forever missed by his partner Tracy Ferguson; dad Denis; mom Lynne; stepmom Karen and stepdad James; sister Shawn and husband Si; Tracy's mom Darlene and family; grandparents, Ed and Terry Gratton and Morris and Val King along with many aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family members. Gratefully, David left us all a precious gift – his son, Davis, who will help bring comfort to our grieving hearts. Known as "Hippy" to his many friends in the Windermere Valley and Calgary, he brought fun into everyone's lives with his goofy grin, reckless abandon and generous spirit. Dave made the good times even better. As a directional driller in Alberta ("Digger Dave"), he was respected by his colleagues for his work ethics and knowledge. Talented at building and taking apart anything, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing with Davis and camping with friends which brought him much peace. He was born in Calgary and moved with his family to Windermere in 1994 attending school at Red Deer Lake School, Windermere Elementary and David Thompson Secondary School. The family held a private Celebration of Life on June 21, 2014 in Calgary and a Memorial was held on June 22, 2014 for friends in Invermere. Dave lived his life to the fullest; always challenging himself and taking risks but, being Dave, he managed to charm his way through everything! David easily made friends and was loved by all whose lives he touched. David – you were taken too soon. Your legacy and spirit will live on through your son and you will remain in all of our hearts forever. A trust fund for Davis is being set up – details to follow. Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.myalternatives.ca.