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DAVID MELVILLE BROWN Obituary pic

DAVID MELVILLE BROWN

Born: Jun 22, 1946

Date of Passing: Feb 24, 2016

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DAVID MELVILLE BROWN David Melville Brown "Bumpa" was born on June 22, 1946 at the Grace Hospital in Winnipeg. He was the son of Elizabeth Louise (Moore) and John Melville Brown, a brother for Denny and Donald, and about 15 months later for his sister, Janet. The family moved to Fort Garry in 1951 where David lived for the remainder of his life with his wife Marsha, and their children, Andrew and Catherine not far from where he grew up. He was an active citizen of Fort Garry and later of Winnipeg when all of the suburban municipalities were amalgamated. In many respects he was a pillar of the community, serving as a councillor and later Deputy Mayor of Winnipeg. He was a supporter of Victoria Hospital and served on the Board of its foundation for many years. As a young man he played hockey and football for the teams of Fort Garry, and as he matured he became a linebacker and offensive guard for the Weston Wildcats and the St. Vital Bulldogs. David worked in the construction business for many years as the owner, and CEO of Atkins Underground which provides trenchless pipe installation services for general sewer and water contractors. He was an active member of the Manitoba Heavy Construction Association, having served on its Board of Directors and as its President. The cottage at West Hawk Lake was his summer retreat and he spent many happy hours there as a young boy, then with Marsha Ruby whom he married in 1973 and with their children, Andy and Catherine and latterly with his grandchildren Parker, Cooper and Blake Bonneteau to whom he was their beloved Bumpa. He had a license plate identifying his truck as "2DLAKE" and his greatest pleasure was in fixing up "the place" which was hugely enhanced by the addition of Steve to the family. When he and Catherine married, he proudly and happily would tell everyone "I didn't lose a daughter; I gained a carpenter". For the past 10 winters Dave and Marsha joined many of their Fort Garry friends at Pine to Palm in Weslaco, Texas where he enjoyed golfing, happy hours and playing hockey with the Trailer Park Trash team. David was an avid golfer. His wife Marsha would attest to the fact that he even considered himself something of a golf instructor. He also was a keen sportsman. He would troll West Hawk for trout by the hour and fish for "picks" on Lake of the Woods with Parker, Cooper, Steve and Donald, but nothing could compare with duck shooting out in the marsh on a beautiful Manitoba morning in October. He was a member of the Portage Country Club which is located on the west side of the Delta Marsh and he spent many happy hours there with his Portage La Prairie friends, his brother Donald, his son, Andy, his nephew Ward and his son-in-law Steve. He loved his dogs Jessie, a mischievous black Labrador; another black Labrador, Toby, who succeeded her; Jake, a big, beautiful yellow Lab; and latterly his "grand dog" Gus. Those who had the pleasure of his company at the hunting lodge will deeply miss his good humour, good fellowship and plain fun. David was diagnosed with leukemia in September, and all attempts to arrest its insidious development failed. He passed away peacefully at St. Boniface Hospital on February 24, 2016 with his family by his side. He is survived by his wife Marsha Kay (Ruby); his son Andrew James, his daughter Catherine "Mink", his son-in-law Steve Bonneteau, their children Parker David, Cooper Shane, and Blake Ruby "Minky", his sisters-in-law Diana Ruby and Lisa Spry (Bill), their children Kaitlin, Kelsey and Logan, his brother Donald and his wife Bonnie and their children Ward and Lindsey, his sister Janet and her husband Doug Gregory, and their children Sharon, Diane and Sandra, his cousins James, Roland, and Betty Lorimer, Marilyn (Meyers), Earl and Dale (Wiebe). David's father, mother, and his brother Denny predeceased him. The family is planning a private ceremony with interment at Thomson "In the Park" Funeral Home. There will be a service with reception on Friday, April 8, 2016 when he can be remembered by his friends once they have returned from their winter vacations. The time and place of this event will be subject of a further announcement. THOMSON "IN THE PARK" 204-925-1120 Condolences may be sent to www.thomsoninthepark.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 27, 2016

Condolences & Memories (40 entries)

  • To Marsha and the family -- I am heartbroken to learn today of Dave's death. He and I go back something around 60 years, but the memories are vivid. Such as when we won the Canadian Juvenile Football Championship. He was not just our captain -- he was someone who supported you fully and for whom our team wanted to go the limit and then more. A true example of leadership. But mostly he made me laugh, and that is so good. In the last few years, he and I have sponsored the Brown-Ransby Award of Excellence for Fort Garry Lions, which celebrates great contributions to the club while also thanking those such as Denny Brown and Gary Hobson who instilled the framework for success and good sportsmanship. - Posted by: Ken Ransby (Friend) on: Apr 22, 2016

  • Marsha, Andy and Catherine and family, my thoughts are with you guys during these difficult time. Dave was my hockey coach and became a live long friend and mentor starting in 1978. I had the opportunity to have many visits in Fort Garry and one trip to West Hawk over the years. I was invited many times to golf and hunt but living in Alberta did not make it easy. I saw Dave in August 2014 and I had an open invite to golf or hunt still. I did not take him up on the chance and regret not doing so. Dave, (your husband and father) had a big influence in my life and who I became. I can hear his voice cheering me on at the Century Arena. Sincere Regards Darrell Chambers - Posted by: Darrell Chambers (Friend since 1978) on: Mar 15, 2016

  • Marsha,Donald and all of the Brown Family: It is with great sadness that I write you to express to you my deepest condolences on the passing of your dear Dave. He was a wonderful friend from the Portage Club of whom I have many fond memories. It was his efforts that kept the place going. My admiration for him was great and I even did my part to finance his mayoral campaign by giving him the change that I had in my pocket. May the knowledge that Dave is watching over you give you strength in the days ahead. He will be dearly missed. - Posted by: Jim Sargent (Thunder Bay) (Friend) on: Mar 14, 2016

  • He was the best/most fun hockey coach that an 11 year old kid could have wished for in 1973/74. God bless you Dave. - Posted by: Don Puhach (Admirer) on: Mar 06, 2016

  • We walk many of life's pathways and I was fortunate to meet David on several of them. We first met at the Wildewood Club and I think every member knew Dave! He was a very friendly and popular guy! The political world would see us meet again when Dave was a city councilman and I worked closely with him. He was one of the finest councillors I ever met. He was a great supporter of the administration and I always looked forward to working with him. Winnipegers owe a great deal of gratitude for his many contributions. And finally we shared similar heart conditions and many stories about our experiences. I will miss Dave and his infectious smile and pleasant disposition. Marsha, I wish you strength and hope you find solace in the many memories you shared together. I am still a snowbird and won't be present in April, but my thoughts will be. God bless! Jim Swail, friend. - Posted by: Jim Swail (Friend) on: Mar 05, 2016

  • Marsha and family, my deepest sympathy on the passing of Dave. He was a wonderful man in so many ways. I will miss seeing his smiling face in Safeway. We all go back such a long way in Fort Garry. Gone but not forgotten, RIP Dave. - Posted by: Evelyn Kingsland (Friend) on: Feb 29, 2016

  • Marsha, we were so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Sincerely Hildy Dyck - Posted by: Hildy Dyck (friend) on: Feb 29, 2016

  • Dear Marsha: I am so very sorry to learn about Dave's passing. In the mid 70's he took a risk and hired me at WASECO. He was a wonderful mentor and so kind to me. I hope I can somehow hear about April logistics and be present. - Posted by: Robert Granke (Former employee ) on: Feb 29, 2016

  • Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this sad time. He will be missed at P-P. - Posted by: Ed and Shirley Zacharias (Friend) on: Feb 29, 2016

  • Marsha I am so sorry to hear of Dave's passing. I did not know Dave personally but through Lisa I felt I knew all of you. He was not merrily a brother-in-law but the brother she never had. I have heard nothing but great things about Dave. He was a kind and generous man. Lisa & her family will miss him greatly. My dearest friend has been saddened by his illness for so time now. I pray that you all will be comforted in this time of loss. He lived a great life & great family - Posted by: Debbie Stalnaker (Friend of Lisa) on: Feb 29, 2016

  • Our condolences to all your family at this very difficult time. Words are not enough, Dave was a wonderful man and will be missed by many. - Posted by: Doug and Kathie Birt (Friends) on: Feb 29, 2016

  • Marsha, I'm so sorry to hear of Dave's passing. My deepest condolences to you and your family. - Posted by: Jan Henley (Friend ) on: Feb 28, 2016

  • Sincere condolences from me and my family. David was wonderfully generous, greatly loved -- especially by Myrt and Wes -- and always welcoming. I will miss him greatly. - Posted by: Rowly Lorimer and family (cousin) on: Feb 28, 2016

  • Dear Marsha, Andrew, Catherine & family, life won't be the same with him. you gather a lot of memories over 50 years. Our families were always like one big happy one, lots of good time's. You are all in my heart at this very sad time in our lives.i will be thinking of you guys on the 29th. With my deepest sympathy & love. uncle jim - Posted by: jim dixon ( HALLDOR ) (uncle jim) on: Feb 28, 2016

  • Marsha and family, we are saddened to hear of Dave's passing. Our prayers and thoughts are with you ar this difficult time. Dave and I served on City Council and community commitee together for many years. He was a great colleague, and wonderful friend. He will be missed , but never forgotten. Glory and Larry Fleisher - Posted by: Glory and Larry Fleisher (Friend) on: Feb 28, 2016

  • Dear Marsha,Andrew,Catherine,& family,life won't be the same with him. you gather a lot of memories over 50 years. our families were always like one big happy one, lots of good time's. you are all in my heart at this very sad time in our lives. I will be thinking of you guys on the 29th.with my deepest sympathy & love. Uncle Jim - Posted by: jim dixon ( HALLDOR ) (uncle jim) on: Feb 28, 2016

  • Marsha what a shock to hear this news. It was such a joy to get to spend a little time with you guys last year on your way back home. It never ceases to amaze me that even though we are so far away and may not spend the time that we all wish we could when we were all together it was like we had never been apart. Dave was so loved by all and will be missed each and every day. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. - Posted by: Debbie Schlemmer (Cousin) on: Feb 28, 2016

  • My deepest condolences to all the Brown family on their tragic loss. I first met Dave over 30 years ago at Riverton Manitoba with brother Don and other friends. We were duck hunting on lake Winnipeg I liked him right from the start. In the years to come I enjoyed hunting with Dave and Don at many spots in Ontario and Manitoba and for the last several years at one of Dave's favorite spots the portage country club. Dave was a stand up fun guy and just a comfortable, great person to be around. He will be missed but not forgotten. Rest in Peace Dave. Pete - Posted by: Peter Vader (Friend) on: Feb 28, 2016

  • We were deeply saddened to learn of Dave's passing. It is said that life is sometimes not fair and this is perfect example of that adage. Dave will be missed by all whose lives he touched, and there were many. We will miss him at P2P and certainly his team mates on our hockey team mourn his passing. Our most sincere condolences to Marsha and the rest of Dave's family - Posted by: Ken & Terry Thomson (Friends) on: Feb 28, 2016

  • I am so very sorry for your loss. One of the great things about hanging around with Andy when we were younger is that he had such great parents. I always enjoyed the time I spent at your home and cabin, and am saddened to hear of Dave's passing. My thoughts are with your family. - Posted by: Dave Shedden (Friend) on: Feb 28, 2016

  • Marsha, you and your family are in my prayers. I will always be able to remember Dave's wonderful smile and laugh. What a great life he had and what wonderful memories you will all have to remember the good times with him. I am lucky and honored to have known him. - Posted by: Pam Brown (Friend) on: Feb 28, 2016

  • my condolences to Marsha & family. Maybe Mel & Dave will meet again. sorry to hear of his passing. - Posted by: Lorna Henuset (Friend) on: Feb 27, 2016

  • Our sincere condolences to the Brown Family. The family are long time West Hawkers and we know Dave will be missed by many. Our thoughts and prayers go to each and every one of you. Bob and Wendy Harbottle - Posted by: Bob and Wendy Harbottle (Aquaintance from West Hawk Lake, MB.) on: Feb 27, 2016

  • Great memories with Bulldogs. Dave was leader and very tough football player. My thoughts are with you Marsha. I have been thinking about Dave a lot since his passing. Life just isn't fair. Nice to see you April. - Posted by: Tim Borbridge (Friend for years. Football team mate Bulldogs.) on: Feb 27, 2016

  • Marsha, I am so sorry to hear of Dave's passing. My deepest condolences to you and your family. - Posted by: Jan Henley (Friend) on: Feb 27, 2016

  • Marsha. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. When Steven married Cathie we not only gained a wonderful daughter-in-law but wonderful friends. You and Dave made us feel so welcomed. We will miss him. - Posted by: Susan and Cliff (Friends) on: Feb 27, 2016

  • Marsha and family, we are so very sorry to learn of Dave' passing.He was such a great man, you and the world needed him many more years. I feel blessed to have had him as a friend and "big brother" since we were kids. May God bless you all and comfort you. - Posted by: Barb and Clare McMullen (friend) on: Feb 27, 2016

  • Marsha, our deepest condolences and sympathy to you and all your family during this most difficult time. Bob and I each have our special memories with David, Bob through Sports and mine through the friendship we had since I was 15 years old. David, we will miss you. Rest in peace dear friend! - Posted by: Heather and Bob Rogers (Lifetime Friends) on: Feb 27, 2016

  • Marsha, our deepest condolences and sympathy to you and your family during this most difficult time. Bob and I both have our special memories with David, Bob through Sports and mine through the friendship we had since I was 15 years old. David, we will miss you, Rest in Peace our dear friend! - Posted by: Heather and Bob Rogers (Childhood Friends) on: Feb 27, 2016

  • Our Prayers and thoughts to Marsh and Family. Dave was a wonderful Friend more many years - Posted by: Don & Sarah MacKenzie (Freind for many years in construction,Golf, Hunting & Great fun in Texas) on: Feb 27, 2016

  • My deepest sympathy, Marsha. Dave was such a fun-loving guy. He was always happy to play with a the gals in the mixed golf at Falcon and we had some great golf and a lot of laughs. He will be missed by all who knew him. Ruth Dyker - Posted by: Ruth Dyker (Friend) on: Feb 27, 2016

  • Marsha and family please accept my condolences on your loss. I was saddened to learn of his passing and it brought back many memories of Dave. I worked closely with Dave for many years while he was on City Council. He was always tough but fair and listened to the administration's advice before he made up his mind. Most importantly to me and many others is that he always treated staff with the greatest respect. A rare commodity these days. Dave Brown was a class act and he will be missed. - Posted by: Bill Carroll (Coworker) on: Feb 27, 2016

  • Marsha and family Our sincere condolences .Dave was a wonderful man and will be never be forgotten - Posted by: Jim&Kaye Passey (Friend) on: Feb 27, 2016

  • Marsha and family, Janet and family, Donald and family. You've lost a great husband, father, grandfather, brother and brother -in-law. I'm so saddened that David has passed away. All to young too. Marilyn, Dale, Betty Ann, Samuel and I have lost a great cousin. Sincere cobdolences. Earl and Sonia Brown - Posted by: Earl (Cousin) on: Feb 27, 2016

  • I was saddened to learn of Dave's untimely passing. Dave and I served together on City Council for a number of years. He was one of the "Amigos" and he was dedicated in his work to make his local community in Fort Garry and the entire City in general a better place for all and he succeeded. Rest in Peace, "Amigo." You've left us far too soon but you are now in a place where your tee shot will always be straight down the fairway, and your limit of ducks will be assured. To Marsha and family, sincere condolences from Rhoda and me in your time of loss. Dave will be missed, but he will never be forgotten. - Posted by: Jae Eadie (friend) on: Feb 27, 2016

  • Marsha, our sincere and deepest condolences to you and your family in these very difficult and trying times. It was great knowing Dave over the years and always enjoyed taking in activities with Dave and family. Dave accomplished a lot in his years with us and the communities benefited enormously from his participation and contributions. We will miss you. - Posted by: Claude and Jackie Bru (Friend of the family) on: Feb 27, 2016

  • We are very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with all your family at this very difficult time. We had the utmost respect for Dave. God Bless! - Posted by: Eugene & Mildred Baraniuk (friend) on: Feb 27, 2016

  • Our sincere condolences to Marsha and the Brown family. As a member of the trailer trash hockey group I will miss the humour he brought to the rink and golf course. - Posted by: Reid and Bette Birss (Freinds) on: Feb 27, 2016

  • Good bye Dave. I will always remember you and the many great conversations we had at the Rehfit Centre where I met you some 20 years ago.....Time flies My deepest sympathies to all our your family. You will be missed big guy!!!!! "JP" - Posted by: Jean-Paul Normandin RN Staff member Rehfit Centre (Friend ) on: Feb 27, 2016

  • Cathy, Marsha and family. Jennifer and I are very sorry for your loss. Although we never really knew him, he certainly sounds like an amazing man and he is sure to be missed. - Posted by: Ryan and Jennifer Dornbush () on: Feb 27, 2016

Thomson In the Park Funeral Home and Cemetery

Thomson In the Park Funeral Home and Cemetery

1291 McGillivary Blvd. (Map)
Ph: 2049251120 | Visit Website

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