David James Hamilton

June 25, 2015

We are greatly saddened to announce that David Hamilton of Coquitlam has passed away after a long battle with prostate cancer. He is survived by his loving wife Donna, son Mark (Kamaya Lindquist), daughter Nicki (Denise Garzόn), brother Patrick (Wendy) and granddaughters Alex and Gabby.

David was born in England in 1940. He graduated from Reading University and worked as a science journalist in London until he met and married Donna (Powell) in 1971. They subsequently came to Canada to start their new life – in Ottawa. In 1979 he started working at BCIT, happy to be moving closer to Donna’s relatives in BC. He worked at BCIT until his retirement in 2009.

Runner of half marathons and wearer of beige, he made everyone feel valued and quietly encouraged them to make music part of their lives. He brought music to the lives of so many and was a kind, intelligent, diplomatic, quiet, supportive, self-effacing man of integrity. Though he never wanted to be the centre of attention, it turns out that he was at the center of a lot of things and touched so many people’s lives. He didn’t always say a lot, but you knew it was worth listening when he did.

The family would like to thank the Fraser Valley Cancer Clinic, Dr. Michelle Birch, the Fraser Health Home Palliative Care team, and the McKenney Creek Hospice for their invaluable support and guidance.

The Celebration of David’s life will be held at 1:00 pm on July 25 at the Unitarian Church of Vancouver, 949 W 49th Ave. Reception to follow. Because music was so central to David’s life, we will be putting together a band and a choir for the event. If you would like to sing with the pickup choir or bring an instrument to join the band, please RSVP to zatapog@gmail.com for further details.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made to Beacon Unitarian Church or Eliot Institute.

You are invited to lease a personal message for the family.

Messages of Condolence

A very fine obituary for a wonderful man. May his legacy always be one of learning, laughter, music and love.

- Allegra Sloman

I will always remember David with his semi-arched eyebrows, looking up from the piano keys as he graciously led the music at Beacon. It is good to have been one of the many lives he touched. I will hold fond memories of him in my heart.

- Pat Kinrade

David always made me feel like a better version of myself when we spoke. What an absolutely gorgeous soul he was! My heart is sad for his passing. Please know I am sending prayers and warm thoughts to Donna, Nicki and all who are missing this kind and caring man. Blessings to all.

- Jessica Motherwell

Sending prayers and warm thoughts to Donna and family. David was a warm and wonderful man and I enjoyed working with him on his many services when I worked at Beacon. I was saddened to hear of his struggle and passing.

- Karren Panko

A kind and beautiful soul ... we could use a lot more like him ... if only he were here.

- Neil Gibbard

Dear Donna and Family, Cliff and I send our deepest condolences for the loss of your dear husband, father and grandfather. It had been a long time since we had seen David, but we have many fond memories of his great talent, warmth and wonderful dry sense of humour. We were glad to have know him. We were away in the Okanagan until today, and were sorry to miss the celebration of his life on Saturday, and even a chance to sing in the choir one more time! Sending warm thoughts and hugs, Maryse and Cliff

- Maryse and Cliff

David was a patient in my office for almost 30 years. He was always the most gracious, polite and patient man. He was the inspiration for me to start learning about dental implants and his willingness to support my learning is probably the reason why I continued on with my studies. I will always be grateful to him.

- Dr Myrna Pearce

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