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DAVID MCCLELLAND
Born: Jul 28, 1954
Date of Passing: Dec 17, 2012
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryDAVID MCCLELLAND On Monday, December 17, 2012 in his own home, with family by his bed side, David peacefully passed away. He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife Sheri, son Sean, daughter Lee and Labrador Zoe; brothers, Greg (Claudette), Reid (Denise), sister Claudia Bridges; extended family Justin, Jane and Archie; cousins, Barry and Pat Hunter, Glen and Marilyn Chidlow of Ponoka, Alberta, numerous nieces and nephews. David was predeceased by his parents, in-laws and brother-in-law David Bridges. David was born in Altona Hospital July 28, 1954, youngest child of four children to Charles and Dorothy McClelland. He was raised on the family farm in Lettelier, MB off the Marais. David had a very rich childhood, along with his best friend and cousin Ken , it was full of adventures. He would say, my life on the farm was the best. Like living in Huckleberry Finn! Tramping through the forest, camping out, floating down the river on homemade rafts, swimming in Lake Charlie. A wonderful world for a young boy's imagination to grow, and it did. Hours were spent drawing pictures, or setting up soldiers by the hundreds in different military maneuvers all over the living room floor. One of the best perks of being the youngest by four years was being the first one to get into mom's oatmeal cookies or her spice cake before the others came in the door. The kitchen window gave him a strong advantage when it came to first dibs on the food, he could see the others coming down the road quite a way off. Then there were the chores, hauling the water and chopping the hole in the ice so the cows could drink. Sometimes it was so cold, to see the hole was almost impossible due to the cattle's breath! Later he attended Emerson School; here he met two of his lifelong friends Bob Dowsell and Garry Knutt, many antics continued throughout high school. But a rich and true friendship with them and their wives has continued. After high school David worked a number of jobs from roasting coffee beans to fighting forest fires in British Columbia. These jobs took him from one side of the country to the other, meeting new people and making lifelong bonds everywhere he went. Once he moved into Winnipeg, the adventures were endless. It was at St. Boniface Hospital David would meet his soul mate Sheri, they would marry June 9, 1979 at St. Bartholomew's Church. For the next years they would spend it travelling not only overseas, but also overland by motorcycle. This love affair with motorcycles had been started a long time ago when he purchased his first bike, a 1965 Honda Trail 90, which his son had just finally returned to him, after being sold 30 years previously. David enjoyed woodworking and at this point in his life focused on becoming a journeyman carpenter. McClelland Construction was formed and his reputation as a master tradesman grew. His skills, knowledge base and wide variety of experience was remarkable. But it was his calm and patient disposition that was truly amazing. At home it was a very busy time, David and Sheri had decided on St. Vital to build their house and raise their family - November 4, 1985 the first child was born, Sean David , and then September 5, 1988 a daughter, Lee Susan . It was in this community they would live. In 1992 David signed on with St. James Assiniboine School Division, reuniting him with some of his trade friends. During these years he taught adult education sessions on all different aspects of building, along with a cable television series. In 1994 he and Jack Dougherty, whom he loved like a father, started on a labour of love - making handmade cedar strip canoes in his shop. These canoes could never be built fast enough and some even shipped overseas as far as Germany. This love came from years of canoeing with good friend Barry Alderson, and the canoe races at St. Boniface Hospital on the Red River. In 2007 an opening came up for a term position teaching carpentry at Red River College. He couldn't resist. These were very happy years, to him it was never work. He recognized each one of his colleagues for their abilities as professionals and saw the special qualities in each of them personally. His students always came first; his time was always given. He was a man who took his job as a husband and father seriously; a strong and calming presence. From swimming pools to hockey rinks he was there supporting his kids. With David his interests never ended, from being a certified scuba diver to an avid curler. A lover of nature, you could find him at the family cottage at Falcon Lake. He also rediscovered his love of fishing, and many days were spent out at Eagle Shore with his son Sean. It was not unusual to find David out at the riding academy with daughter Lee, and even trying his hand at doing a few jumps on the horse himself! Family times were always important, and anytime seemed to be a good time for a get-together. He looked forward to the numerous McClelland get-together's, especially the long weekend in August at the Red Rock Lake as well as the famous Boxing Day at his place. These times were important, for family stories would be told and his heritage would be passed on to the next generation. David and Sheri took their last road trip together in August 2012. David called it his Silvaggo Summer , after the surgeon who gave him back precious time. They spent it visiting friends and family out West, where David said good-bye to places he had travelled previously. Remembering those numerous trips starting with those Hippy Days, with long hair and backpacks; it seemed like everyone was on the move then. It was a good time to be alive. A few highlights of his trip were flying cousin Glen's plane, time at Lake Louise, and a photo taken in the Banff at The Spot . David was a gift to anybody who was lucky enough to know him; he made the world a better place. He leaves his family strong and able to stand alone, for through the years he has given us the tools - To love, To forgive, To be patient, To spend time together, the importance of family and friends, work hard, do not give up, focus on the solution not the problem, no regrets, to be grateful for what you have, and have faith in the Lord. We would like to thank all our friends and family who have stood by us through a very difficult time. Thanks go out to the entire brain tumor team at Health Sciences Centre, and all involved in David's care. We invite you to celebrate David's life at Neil Bardal Funeral Centre, 3030 Notre Dame Ave. (across from Brookside Cemetery) on Friday, December 21, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. Private interment. The service will be webcast live through the Neil Bardal website. In lieu of flowers, donations may go towards a scholarship being set up in his name at Red River College. Til we meet again NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 www.nbardal.mb.ca
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 20, 2012
Condolences & Memories (27 entries)
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A year has passed and we have had time to reflect on all that you had done for us and many others. We miss you David. Always in our hearts and never forgotten. Love always, Reid, Denise & family - Posted by: Reid,Denise & Family (Brother) on: Dec 17, 2013
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It was an honour to have met David and gotten to know him through SWABA. He was a very kind man. My heart goes out to you, my dear Sheri, Sean and Lee. - Posted by: Sybil K. () on: Feb 01, 2013
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Sheri, Sean & Lee, So sorry to hear of David's passing. He was the most gentle, kind and caring person that we have ever known. Even though we seldom saw each other especially since our kids have grown up, we will never forget what a special man your husband & father was. - Posted by: June and Renny Kaptein (Neighbours & Friends) on: Jan 03, 2013
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Sorry to hear this sad news. He will be missed. - Posted by: Frances Forrester (former marais resident) on: Dec 28, 2012
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Merry Christmas David! - Posted by: Reid, Denise, Ryan & Erin (Brother and family) on: Dec 25, 2012
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Thoughts and prayers go our to you Sheri and all the McClelland family. I always remeber David was the first one to give me a ride on his Honda Goldwing which instill in me a passion for motorcycles. I will one day get my own goldwing and forever will remember my first ride with David. David was a gentle and caring person and will be sadly missed. Love Gabby - Posted by: Gabe Ayotte (family friend) on: Dec 22, 2012
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On behalf of Red River College's Carpentry and Woodworking Department I would like to express our deepest sympathy. Dave is and always will be a part of our Carpentry family. Dave was a dedicated instructor that would work tirelessly to see that his students were successful. He would be seen regularly in the shop late into the evening with a student that needed additional support to grasp a concept. Dave could not wait to return to our family, after his first operation he would stop by for coffee with the staff on the way to his treatment. He loved being at the College and considered this his dream job. Dave’s wealth of knowledge and his vast experience made a true difference in the lives he touched. Dave’s final days at RRC were instructing level 2 Carpentry Apprentices. I can tell you Dave gave everything he had and more to the apprentices he was instructing. It was difficult for us to see Dave weakening and have trouble making it through the day although he was more concerned with the success of his students than the way that he felt or how tired he was. Dave always had a smile on his face and would give you the shirt off his back. He was our friend and fellow brother and we will miss him greatly. Sometimes we don’t realize how much a person has entered into our lives. He was just a good person. David, you will live on through us and we will pass on the knowledge you have imparted to us to future apprentices and make a difference in people’s lives. - Posted by: Michael Watson (Co-worker ) on: Dec 22, 2012
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Dave left a part of himself in every one he was around...I will remember always his passion for life-his great stories of adventures....That laugh as his eyes twinkled.... his love for nature, his amazing calm disposition, the endless ability to imagine, understand, calculate, create, master and teach was a gift he shared with so many that were lucky enough to be in his path!! I will always remember how he smiled so wide and lit up whenever he spoke of his Amazing family...Sheri, Sean, and Lee,of course Zoe,and all the extensions and friendships....how he was so lucky to have them, to love and to cherish!! He could not be any prouder of a man and so humble!! Many of my other clients also got to know him also , enjoying many a good chuckle and moments amongst! How wonderful a world to have so many branches of love!! Dave masterfully built my hairshop cabinets I roughly sketched -making them beautifully come to life -so functional and beyond perfect!! Thank-you Dave For my "jelly bean " machine you made for me..not a day goes by when that machine rests....my clients and I have eaten so many jelly beans-we've even created "color" games with it -taken turns in gobbling them up! I have jokingly thanked him a million times for the many dollars worth it costs me to keep that thing filled. : ) That machine will outlive us all....much like the memories of you!! I know your time is to rest now...a life so well lived...never forgotten...and will be forever missed!! Peace be with you and your family Many hugs and love....Kathy - Posted by: Kathy Sullivan (Friend/Hairstylist) on: Dec 22, 2012
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Dear Sheri, Although I never met David, I knew him through you. He was always the joy of your life. May you be comforted by your many happy memories. Praying for you. With love, Irene - Posted by: Irene Klopak (Friend) on: Dec 21, 2012
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David has been around our family since our kids were young! Our attic, veranda, kitchen, and many other parts of our home showcase David's extraordinary carpentry skills. He became our family friend and would visit at our kitchen table over cookies and tea throughout the years! He was a lovely man and we will miss him! Bob & Suzanne Watson. - Posted by: Bob Watson (Friend) on: Dec 21, 2012
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We are very sorry to hear about David's passing. May we extend our sincere sympathy to you and all the McClelland family. Jack and Ros Irvine - Posted by: Jack and Rosalind Irvine (Neighbours on the Marais for many years) on: Dec 21, 2012
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David spent so much time at our parents home near Dugald, MB. So much of the house was renovated by him! He became such a wonderful family friend. He was such a kind and gentle man- I remember him being the only one able to pull Porcuine Quills from our dogs mouth, and he even treated my Cabbage Patch Kids with respect. I feel so lucky to have known him, and I am so sorry for his family's loss. - Posted by: Kelly Lehmann (née Watson) (Friend) on: Dec 21, 2012
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David was my family's carpenter and the mark of his amazing workmanship is all over my childhood home. From beautiful wooden ceilings and a verandah, as well as a very difficult refinishing of an attic with tricky angles; his work was beautiful. Sort of a part of our family, David was around since I was born and as an adult, we came to have nice chats about nature and gardening. A person who was good to the core, he will be sadly missed by the Watson Family. - Posted by: Erin Watson () on: Dec 21, 2012
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We were so sorry to learn of the passing of David but felt so fortunate to have visited with him this summer at the McClelland reunion. David had a strong interest in our Irish roots which I so much appreciated. David's obituary shares with us what a wonderful and interesting person he was. He will be missed by all! - Posted by: Dennis & Valerie (McClelland) Anderson (2nd. cousin) on: Dec 21, 2012
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It was my great pleasure to have known Dave while we were employees of SJSD. We became yearly teammates at the annual SJSD curling bonspiel along with Kelly and Sheryl. We were known as the "Trades and Babes"! Every year we were in the prizes and always had a blast. We curled together in the bonspiel every year for 6 years culminating in our final year, 2011, winning the Championship event. We were the "Irish" team and were unbeatable that year! Dave curled with expert skill and a little Irish luck. We had so much fun together and those memories will be with me forever! Dave was the most patient, kind and loving individual one could ever know. I am blessed to have had the privilege of sharing quality time with him. "Super Dave" will be sadly missed by so many of us. - Posted by: Donna Pigden (Curling buddy) on: Dec 21, 2012
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lake charlie and hiking in the woods amongst the basswoods are but a few of my memories. it was soo good to meet his immediate family at the McClelland reunion this summer. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of his family. Mona and Gord - Posted by: mona Brown (cousin) on: Dec 21, 2012
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I will miss you very much "Uncle Dado". Give Grams and Gramps, Dave and my precious Shadow a big hug for me. Love Lise (LeeLee) - Posted by: Lise (Niece) on: Dec 20, 2012
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I met Dave while employed at the SJSD, I was immediately Struck by Dave's "laid back nature" hence the nickname at SJSD! Dave's workmanship was remarkable and attention to detail immense, I am blessed to have some of that work proudly displayed in our own home. From golf games to curling games, Dave's smile and wit were unmatched, talks about our favorite beer, motorcycles and everything in between shall never fade from memory. I remember talking to Dave one day as we looked out a window, He turned to me and said, I think I am going to expand my horizan!! It was a short time later Dave left to Teach at RRC, How lucky the students must have been! I left SJSD a little while later and kept in touch with a phone call once in a while. Our paths crossed in 2011/12 at my workplace it was there I met Dave and Sheri and learned of Dave's journey, I was lucky to spend a few quality minutes with Dave and His wife. On our visit in OCT I realized It may be our last. To Sheri and family and the Mcclelland family, It was honour and privilege to know and work with Dav! Rest in peace my friend. - Posted by: Colin mcneill (Friend and colleage ) on: Dec 20, 2012
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Our hearts are heavy with sorrow and our thoughts and prayers are with you Sheri, Sean and Lee. We will cherish the memories of our reunion dinner. - Posted by: Ron and Evelyn Ward (Friend) on: Dec 20, 2012
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I enjoyed my association with you Dave at the SJSD Facilities and Maintenance Complex and will forever miss your respectful and gentle nature. Rest in Peace! - Posted by: Richard Lyons (St. James-Assiniboia School Division) on: Dec 20, 2012
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I met Dave while working at St. James collegiate, he was tasked with restoring all of the wood work throughout the school for the school's 50th. While he had a ton of work to do, he always had time to chat and share a story. His attention to detail and exceptional work is still on display throughout the entire school. He single handedly restored SJCI back to its former glory, and I am grateful that he has made my workplace a better place to be. - Posted by: Dale (Colleague) on: Dec 20, 2012
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I have known Sheri and Dave since they met and have always cherished their love, friendship, generosity and openness. David was always like the big brother to Dee and I, we could trust him and Sheri to be anywhere, pretty much anytime, we needed them. My heart is sore and my prayers go out to Sheri and the kids. He was a great, kind soul who impacted many with only a soft touch. Love to you all. Pat - Posted by: Pat Hanney (Family friend) on: Dec 20, 2012
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Our thoughts and prayers are with you Sheri at this time of sorrow & loss. - Posted by: Joyce & Henry Lucy (Friend) on: Dec 20, 2012
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We were blessed to have known David, especially Brian having spent many an occasion at Lake Charlie with David in younger years. A lot of laughs were had. We will cherish our last visit with David at the Emerson Fall Supper. He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Sheri and your family. - Posted by: Brian and Donna Knutt (Friends) on: Dec 20, 2012
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Thank you for your friendship.....Ken - Posted by: Ken (friend) on: Dec 20, 2012
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Reid and family, my thoughts are with you at this difficult time. God speed all healing! Take Care - Posted by: Cindy Cove (Work colleague of Reid's) on: Dec 20, 2012
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I met Dave when he began working at Red River College, on his first day actually. I would see Dave often in the halls and he would stop and say hello. He would even stop and wait or poke his head out of his office because he could hear me coming, he said he always knew it was me because I am the only one walking through building B that wore heels. I was wondering why I hadn't seen Dave in a while and I was shocked when I read the announcement in the College's daily news. The obituary you wrote is beautiful. Thank you for sharing so much of his life with those who had become his acquaintances, his life was so full. You all were so obviously blessed to have such a man in your life. And, I agree, Dr Silvaggo is a wonderful doctor and individual; he helped my brother a lot when his cancer had spread to his brain as well. My thoughts will be with you tomorrow at the service and during this holiday season. I wish I could have told Dave that it was wonderful and a privilege to know him; and wish I could have gotten to know him a little bit more. - Posted by: Sarah Skinner (colleague) on: Dec 20, 2012
