Condolences
Dave Bernatchez was a one of the greatest center men in Hockey …… I was his goalie in Grade 4, 5 and 6…. What a hockey player he was playing for the wildwood warriors and then the ow Trail Blazers when the communities of Westgate, Raoscarock and Wildwood united to be able to contend with the tri-woods of the city….. what a rivalry and Dave was in the thick of it….. such a tough young lad….. and then I remember the three of us made the the senior volleyball team in grade 7…… unheard of in those days….. Ariel Arcega as the setter, Dave as the power house and me….. well this is not about me…. Dave was quite the sportsman from my earliest memories when I moved into the neighborhood in grade three…. Jim Keough, Glen Chomiak…. James Pearce…Michael Vos,…. Ed Bettencourt…. as James dad was our hockey coach…. What a force we were…. With Dave at the lead…. I honestly thought with the brains Dave had, and his diplomatic skills…. That he would become Prime Minister of Canada….and I told him many times downtown even later in life….. Remember the boat he drove… with his lady…. I believe she was the love of his life….. Dr Jordan Peterson, a small town AB Boy whom became a Harvard / U of T Professor and did a 160 City book tour whose 3rd book sold out at Costco in the spring of 2021 says that Life is suffering….. and I truly believe that when Dave lost his High School Sweet Heart…. He never recovered ….. he had many successes…. But his heart was taken early…. I was his goalie…. And saw everyone from a different perspective as the always say goalie’s are a different breed…. Well from my perspective, I never hesitated when Dave would pass me answers during an exam in class….. as his heart was of gold…… I miss you buddy!…. I just never heard …. My heart is forever with you my friend….. See you soon!….. your obscure but loyal friend …. Jerry Samu….. Love ya my friend!! …. We shared such times driving to hockey at 6:00 am to springbank when all you saw on the other side of Sarcee trail on the hill was horses grazing…... miss you my good friend….. say hi to Tom S on the other side as he is already there…. You both were tough Son-of- a - Bee’s in high school football…. I could go on and on….. working at the bottle depot on weekends during high school…. The Money Back Container Shack on the Corner of 26th ave and 37th street with Rob Sheedy and Chris Sobey…. Tom Spoerth… and the trip to Whitefish Montana During High School when freezing rain stalled out route home and Dave was the one instrumental in keeping the calm….. the guy was was amazing….. a tragic loss ….. Dave ….. I looked up to you my whole existence….. with the utmost Kindest and Best Regards having known Dave since he was little….. Dave was a man if integrity, Honour, intelligence, toughness, and loyal grit whom was always top shelf….. Miss ya buddy! Your goalie…. Wildwood Warriors, Volleyball Compadre, and School friend whom respected you always…. Jerry Samu….. RIP….. You deserve it!!! We miss ya!!
I send my sincere condolences to the Bernatchez family. I first met David at Dome in the 80's and remained colleagues through the years. I will always remember his sincere ways and his abilities in his career.
Dave was a truly memorable and honourable man. We met playing for representative rugby forty years ago. He was a leader then and continued to be so. We played rugby against each other on several occasions and is competitive spirit was undiminished but he never forgot that it was a game. We last met was a few years ago and, as always, we had a wonderful conversation and we picked up right where we left off.
My world was a better one because of Dave. My heartfelt condolences to his family.
Ron Horton
Dear Giselle, Jacquie and familys:
I Met David a few times and at your Dad's funeral. He was so special.
My thoughts and Prayers are with you all.
Sincerely,
Josephine Kowalchuk - Lampel
When God made Dave He broke the mold afterwards. God will be happy to have his special Son back home. Sincere condolences to Dave’s family who helped to make him the special person he was.
Jon and I were so fortunate to have seen Dave a few days before he fell ill. It was a warm summer evening and Dave was having dinner with friends at Buchanan's restaurant. Dave joined us on the patio for a visit where we were able to catch up. Many years had passed since we last saw Dave, but it didn't seem that way once we got talking. I remember his warmth and sincerity with great clarity and felt so happy after we spoke. I only knew Dave from rugby events with Jon, but I always remember his way of listening and his attentiveness. He was always present and what a gift that is to receive. To read the comments, it is clear Dave was a wonderfully inspirational human being and I offer my sincerest condolences to all of his family and friends.
I wanted to share some memories and thoughts of Dave on behalf of my parents, George and Doreen Fleming and family.
Dave once told me at homecoming about the first time he saw my sister Katie after graduating. It must’ve been between 1987 and 1989 when Dave happened to be in New York City and met up with Katie who, at the time, was working for Stephen Lewis at the UN. Dave admitted that he was feeling apprehensive given that Katie had completed her year as a Rhodes Scholar, was working for Stephen Lewis and now living in NYC. Just being in NYC can seem overwhelming. Dave was wondering if Katie had changed.
They met up and Katie decided that they should go to an Indian restaurant she liked for dinner. With Dave still feeling uneasy the waiter came and asked what they would like to drink. Katie looked at Dave, thought for a second and said “How about a pitcher of beer”? Dave knew at the moment that Katie hadn’t changed one bit!
When we lost Katie in 1999 Dave didn’t waste any time. He felt inspired, I suppose, to act and that he did with Kevin McGilly, Mike Boyd and others. Together they created the Katherine Fleming Development award given to a woman from Sub-Saharan Africa attending the Coady Institute at St. Francis Xavier University. Dave attended all the homecomings over the past 20 years and took it upon himself to be emcee at most of Katie’s award ceremonies that started at the Bauer Theatre and then moved to the old chapel which is now one of the Coady buildings.
My parents have also attended most of the annual award ceremonies for Katie as well as many family members including Katie’s husband John Zutt and their kids Madeline, Nicholas and Alexander. I know it was very hard for my parents at first. Dave, very quickly became a very close and important friend of our family. I truly believe my parents grew to look forward to homecoming every year because of Dave’s hard work, effort and dedication.
Dave’s grace and generosity allowed my parents, me, my siblings, Katie’s kids, nieces and nephews to learn more about Katie first hand through his memories and those of Katie’s friends who would attend Coffee with Coady. In fact, Dave was the impetus for many of Katie’s friends to come and participate in the ceremony. I know this brought a lot of joy to my parents and allowed them, and the rest of us, to meet some of Katie’s friends we’d never met before like Phil Markovich, Larry MacEachern and Mark Stone. Because of Dave my parents could also reconnect with friends they already knew, Mike and Lisa Boyd, Larry Andrea (in small doses), Tim Hynes, Greg Berry and especially Kevin McGilly.
My Father always said that Katie’s award wouldn’t be what it is without Mary Coyle. Dave’s close relationship with Mary allowed great things to happen and, from what I understand Mary was the driving force. When it came to the winner of the annual award Dave was very diligent in reviewing their background and getting to know all about them BEFORE meeting them. I know, from being with Dave at homecoming for the past 8 or so years, that he clearly remembered every woman who was a winner over the years.
My Mom always had a very sincere and affectionate look when, after a year she’d see Dave at homecoming again. I know my parents are very thankful for Dave and all did for our family. Our thoughts and prayers are with Dave and his family. Dave was an exceptional person and friend.
George Fleming jr.
David, Classmate at X, I am in an utter loss for words. A leader of leaders, a mentor to many. Too soon for someone who always had time to “catch up” and never enough time to truly appreciate the absolute and genuine human being you were, we could all learn something from the standard you set. Although we hadn’t seen enough of each other over the years, when we did happen upon each other at various charity events, a Flames or Stampeder game or on the street, it was like we never missed a beat. Always positive, always interested, always engaged and tuned in, a sign of a true life friend.
You are already missed by so many, a job well done.
Dwayne Blume, X’ 85
Dear Giselle, Jacquie & Family
My husband John & I have known Dave for over 35 years. I still remember the day we met, walking along the road at Gull Lake when the Canucks stopped there after a game in Edmonton. That says so much about Dave right there, when you met him you were instantly struck by his warm and genuine smile. He made everyone feel so special. Once you met him you only wanted to be his friend forever.
Dave & John had the special brotherhood of the Calgary Canucks. We both had the pleasure of working with Dave at Dome Petroleum as well. Then our son went to St FX, played on the rugby team and got to know Dave through his loyalty and dedication to St FX. So many connections - we were so blessed to have known Dave and to have had him as a very dear friend.
Our hearts go out to you all at this heartbreaking time. The world has lost one of the truly finest gentlemen. Rest in peace dear Dave.
John & Teresa Carruthers
Giselle and Jacquie,
I was so deeply sorry to hear of Dave's passing. Reading all of the condolences is a testament to the amazing person your brother was. A kind, generous, humble man of utmost character and integrity. He will be truly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. I am grateful to have known him as a colleague and a friend. The world has lost a great man, but his positive impact and friendship will be remembered forever.
Margaret Elekes
David was a passionate competitor, but more defined by his kind, loving and giving nature. He was a man of great integrity and faith. His smile and warmth brought happiness to all and he is dearly missed. Condolences to all his family and friends.
RIP David.
The Maughan Family
Giselle, Jacquie and family,
We are so very sorry to hear of Dave's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time. God Bless
Anne Wyonzek and Family
David was a true gentleman with a genuine interest in people and when you were talking to him it felt like he cared as he listened closely to what you were saying. I had the opportunity of working with David while he did the Father Whelihan scholarships and I did the Calgary Booster Club scholarships. We would compare notes and try to share the wealth with our choices. As a former winner of a Father Whelihan scholarship, he showed his appreciation by giving back to the organization for many years. I will miss his sincerity, his big smile, and his friendship. David was one of the best and my thoughts and prayers go out to his family on their tremendous loss.
Dear Jacquie, Giselle, Rachel and Stephen,
I can’t even imagine the loss and pain you must all be feeling right now.
Your Dave was such a great human being and loved by so many of us.
He was one of the most generous friends I have ever had and I know his friendship ties were strongly felt and appreciated from coast to coast.
As you lay our dearest Dave to rest tomorrow, please know that I am right there with you in spirit and will be sending all my love your way.
Big Dave- style hugs to you all - I sure am going to miss him.
Mary Coyle
It is with shock and sadness that I write these words about Dave. I'm still in disbelief.
I started at Dome in early 1985 and Dave started later that year I believe. Dave was a great guy to work with and fit right into the land group at Dome. There was always a gentlemanly confidence about Dave or Bernie as we called him or sometimes Bernice when he would whiff at a slow pitch while we played in our slow pitch league. I'd see Dave quite regularly in the hall or at meetings and he was always pleasant and friendly. He was quite a witty character too and would lay a one liner on you that would make everyone crack up. His sense of humour would catch you off guard which made him all the more fun to be around. I didn't spend as much time with Dave as other of his colleagues but when I did I came away with a smile. I always had time for Dave.
I spent some time with Dave on a course in Houston after Amoco took over Dome. Many of the nights after the course was done for the day the bigger group of us would visit the prominent country tavern(s) for some drinks. One night Dave and I stayed later than anyone else and ended up riding back to the hotel in a 2 seater hatchback Nissan. Dave and I were crammed in the back like sardines almost cheek to cheek. That was a ride I'll never forget. After we were done in Houston Dave and I, Dan McDonald and Gary Peddle rented a car and went on a road trip to San Antonio for some sight seeing. Great fun.
Over the years we would have fun at the Dome Annual Golf Tournament and Dave was always a treat to be around. Such a calm demeanor and never an unkind word spoken from Dave. On occasion I was hooked up with Dave on our foursome and we always had a great time together. He would make you laugh.
At the Landman's conference in Niagara Falls Dave and I were on the organizing committee together and spent a number of days working together to make sure the conference went smoothly from our end. We especially had a blast the day Don Cherry and Ron McLean showed up for a speech they gave. In my home I have a picture displayed prominently of Dave and myself with Cherry and McLean and others.
Dave and I lost touch over the years but there was always times when we would bump into each other downtown like landmen seemed to do. We spent time catching up and it was great checking in on what he was up to. I never knew Dave was involved in so many extra curricular activities, as he never spoke of such great accomplishments - he just gave of his time and was modest while doing it. Dave never boasted about himself he just quietly went about his business.
It's especially heartbreaking when such a robust, kind and gentlemanly human being has left us so soon. We all knew Dave was in great physical shape as you could see it in how he carried himself. So the words shocked and surprised are an understatement at his passing, I will miss Dave and this world is a lesser place without him.
My sincere condolences to Dave’s family and friends
Rest well my friend.
Dave demonstrated all of the best qualities that define true friendship - he stayed in touch (always), took time to get together, was quick to call in difficult times, fun to be with in the many good times, and always genuinely interested in how you were doing. He was a true gentleman and old-fashioned in the best of ways - he would take time to visit when so many of us are “too busy”, he would write a letter or postcard or call when we think a text or email might do. To Dave, relationships mattered more than anything. He had range - he was knowledgeable and interested in many topics - and was passionate, thoughtful, funny, and humble, despite his many accomplishments. He was goodness, simply put. Dave, we will miss you greatly but will keep you in our hearts ( somehow I don’t think you’d mind the Warren Zevon reference).
We are shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of such an "amazing human being". Anytime you crossed paths he made it a point to acknowledge your presence and greet you with a warm smile, handshake or hug. A kind, caring, humble, gentleman. He was always up for an adventure whether it be with the boys or mixed group. Respected every woman in his company and never an unkind word was spoken about anyone or anything. He always found the positive when sharing his thoughts/opinions and was always mindful of others. Scottie and Dave shared many rugby adventures on and off the field. The most recent one that comes to mind is when Dave, Glenn(Spider) and Scott went to Wales to watch rugby. I can readily see the photo of the three of them in their RCMP rugby attire in the stands cheering on the boys,
Sincere condolences to his family and close friends.
Never forgotten, fondly remembered
RIP Dave
Scottie and Kathy Macneill
My deepeest condolences to David's family and friends on his sudden passing. He was a remarkable human being who left us with many enduring memories of his generous service to others. I had the good fortune to work along side David on the Dr.Ed O'Connor Scholarship Committee for several years. His kind heart, generous spirit and robust intelligence was always a welcomed addtion to our discussion. He did his homework.He genuinely cared about young people and had a lasting affection for his alma mater , St Francis Xavier University. He will be missed. Rest in peace my friend.
Elizabeth Gouthro '71
Our sincere condolences to Dave's family, It was a shock to hear of his passing at such a young age.
I was the Office Manager at the CAPL when Dave was on the Board of Directors and several other committees he was on (Denise Grieve).
I worked with Dave at Enerplus and he was a great mentor and was well respected as a Landman (Jeff Grieve).
Eileen MacIsaac
StFX ’85
Dave was part of the Calgary crew that arrived on campus in September 1981 and quickly we knew what a great guy he was. The Class of 1985 was well represented with Dave as our valedictorian and class life president. He was the organizer of our class reunions even though he was in Calgary. In February of this year, Dave organized virtual meetings of our class executive (Dave and I along with Bob Higgins and John Spencer) to talk about our next reunion, post pandemic, and what to do with a recently discovered small class fund. The virtual calls gave us the time to catch up with one another, talk about today’s StFX, our families, our careers and plans for retirement. We have lost one of the finest much too soon. May he rest in peace. Sending sincerest sympathy to his family and friends.
Dave was one of the first Canucks Rob and I met when we first moved to Canada in 1997, and has been a smiling and friendly face to us ever since, who went out of his to make us feel welcome!
He truly was a legend on and off the field.
To his family, our sincere condolences on a great man, who was greatly loved not only the Canucks, but by many.
Rob and Cathy
(Cuthbertson)
Sincere sympathies to Dave’s family. So sorry for your deep loss.
I joined the Canucks in 1990. I was helping Dave with the coaching, had meet Dave twice and attend 1 Monday practice. I learned later Monday my father had passed. Called Dave Tuesday morning, told Dave I would miss Thursdays practice and why. I then started my 7 hour drive home to Moose Jaw. When I got home my mom asked me who are these Canucks who sent the nice flowers. I never told Dave my mom's address. I am certain Dave told no one of his kindness, he saw a need, and although I was almost a stranger to Dave, his values dictated he offer kindness on behalf of all. I thanked Dave when I returned, he needed nor expected no gratitude. That was Dave, a kind, thoughtful, person, who gave repeatedly because he saw a need expecting nothing in return. In the 30 years that have passed I saw this from Dave often. He was top drawer.
Like many, I was stunned to learn the news of Dave's sudden death - I am sure it took the breath away from the whole Calgary community and beyond; he was, quite simply, a very kind, very fine person. My sincerest condolences, you are all in my prayers.
Elizabeth Burke-Gaffney
Dave will be truly missed. I knew him from the rugby world where he was a rock in the foundation of the Canucks Rugby Club and the rugby community as a whole. He was a mentor to me and so many others over the years and I can honestly say we are better people for having known Dave. My deepest condolences to the Bernatchez family and all those who knew him. You were a great man Dave, thank you. Guy (Eddy) Bunting
Don '85 & Kim '85 (Webster) Bourgeois
It is with great sadness that we learnt of Dave's passing. He will be remembered for being a great friend during our years at "X" together. His sense of humour and compassion for others set him apart. He will be sadly missed by family and friends.
My sincere condolences and sympathies go out to Jacquie and Giselle and all the family. My heart is filled with sadness at his loss and I know that he is in a better place and in God’s loving arms.
He was a great nephew, kind, generous and ready help.
Hello all. I am so sorry and shocked to hear of Dave’s passing. I am from Judique Cape Breton Island and served on the Board of Governors at X with him. I can only echo and support what has been written in his obit. To it I will add that he was a true gentle man and I am proud to call him my friend. May he Rest In Peace and Beannachd Leit. Morag Graham.
I met Dave through the Canucks. I was shocked to hear of his passing. We had a lot of fun and great memories on the "Pitch". Dave was a terrific guy and always fun to be around. It is a testament to Dave and his character on how he was truly liked and cared for, by so many people.
My sincere sympathy to Dave's family on the loss of a genuinely wonderful person who touched all with care and kindness.
Don Dempsey
I am shocked and heartbroken upon Dave’s sudden passing. Tears have flowed often this past week. I have so many wonderful memories of our high school years together and special times in Alberta and Ontario in the years that followed. I am immensely grateful and honoured to have had Dave as a friend and to be part of his amazing journey through life.
Dave was a special human being. Incredibly kind, warm, compassionate, thoughtful, loyal, humble, generous and wise, all balanced by a quick wit and great sense of humour. I have a multitude of examples where these qualities shone brightly but a few in particular that stand out include: his kindness and tremendous support when my parents and sister were ill and passed away; his keen interest and enthusiasm for my sons’ athletic pursuits (tennis, soccer & cross country/track) despite them being distant on the sport spectrum from his beloved rugby; and embracing my husband Bruce as a friend too, always ready to connect for golf, skiing or dinner when he was on solo business trips to Calgary. The steady stream of birthday messages, Christmas cards, check-ins and the pandemic postcards stand out also.
Dave exhibited a strength of character in all his interactions and relationships which was second to none and was one of the most genuine human beings I have ever known. He enthusiastically embraced all life had to offer and likewise, showed tremendous enthusiasm for the lives of his family and friends.
One only has to reflect on Dave’s huge and diverse circle of friends to know what kind of a person he was. He made us all feel special and valued , and inspired us with his remarkable spirit. We’ve lost a very special human being… a bright light, a role model, who will be deeply missed. He has left us with an inspiring legacy which I hope we all embrace and act upon wholeheartedly.
My heartfelt condolences to Dave’s sisters Jacquie and Giselle, his entire family and many, many friends far and wide who are grieving an immense loss in their lives.
Christine Murphy, St. Mary’s Class of ‘81 , (Bruce, Andrew and Ryan Davies) Sarnia, Ontario
David Miller
Sunday, July 18, 2021
It with great sadness that I heard of Dave's passing. I first met Dave when he was in grade ten at St. Mary's High School, whee I had the opportunity to coach and teach Dave. I subsequently saw him periodically over the next 40 or so years, where his interest in others and gregarious personality made a great impression on me. I reiterate what Mr. Murtha pointed out; that Dave never had an unkind word to say about anyone. And, no one ever had an unkind word to say about Dave. If there is a person to whom we can all appreciate and learn from, it was Dave. He epitomized the best of human nature. I will more than remember him; I will continue to admire and marvel at his humaneness, his kindness, and his love for his fellow man.
I am so sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. Though behind him by a few year, I travelled his path of St Mary’s, St FX and rugby. We crossed paths over the years and there was always a ready smile and warm welcome whether at a rugby pitch (with his great support and appreciation of women’s rugby) or a social, reunion, funeral or wedding. I am grateful to call you friend. You shall be dearly missed as one of the kindest persons to know.
Deepest condolences, Lori Benning
I am saddened and numb to hear of the passing of my friend and business colleague, Dave. Not only was Dave a skilled landman and problem solver, but (more importantly) a true gentleman who was always more than ready to help. My thoughts and prayers are with Dave’s family and friends. God bless you, Dave. I hope there is a rugby team in Heaven because they will have just gained a star.
The world has lost a true gem of a man, way too soon. My heart is heavy as I think about all of those that Dave has left in a state of sadness, disbelief and shock. Can we all aspire to do one thing in his memory that would make him smile. Tomorrow I will travel to the lake and pull out the Kayak and paddle, and think of him with every moment. You were larger than life Dave Bernatchez, and you’ve left a huge void. RIP you will be missed❤️❤️
My sincere sympathies to Dave's family and his many friends. He was a lovely and generous person and will be remembered by all of the people with whom he shared his kindness.
I am very sad to learn of Dave’s passing. I went to C with Dave and we both got to know each other through Student Union. Although our paths only crossed during homecomings, we always enjoyed sharing our memories of our university years. Dave touched a lot of people and his good work and thoughtfulness to others will be part of his great legacy. My condolences to his family.
My condolences to David’s family and friends. I knew David via StFX as we both served on the alumni board and also crossed paths while attending X in the 80s. David always took the time to have a good chat. He was always interested in hearing about what I was up to as a person or alumni affairs. He really cared about others. He was a great ambassador for StFX. He will be missed.
Paul Fraser,class of 1982.
My thoughts are with Dave’s family and many friends. Dave and I worked together at the Nature Conservancy of Canada and occasionally since that time we would run into each other on the hiking trails in Canmore. I always appreciated Dave’s interest in others and kind outlook. I was so sorry to hear this news.
I am saddened to hear of Dave's passing. I worked with Dave during his time at Nature Conservancy of Canada, and he shone such a bright light on the Alberta office. He genuinely cared about everyone's well-being, which goes such a long way in today's world. Dave was constantly there to lend a helping hand and share his latest music recommendation.
I remember running the Calgary Scotiabank Half Marathon with some other co-workers and Dave would somehow appear on every street corner in Bridgeland, enjoying his morning coffee while cheering us on as the race weaved its way through his neighbourhood. It was a huge pick-me-up!
I am grateful I was able to cross paths with Dave, even if just for a couple of years. I'll miss seeing you in the Folk Fest Beer Gardens.
My thoughts are with his sisters
What a loss we are all experiencing with the news of Dave’s passing. Such a prince of a man in all respects. I have probably known Dave since his early days at Dome Petroleum and immensely enjoyed any time spent with him either on the phone or in person. I used to tease him that had he not been so much younger than myself, I certainly would have pursued him. He would laugh so hard, but be gentle. Dave deserves every accolade tendered here, and many more. He certainly would make any mother proud! He was an impressive mentor, athlete, Landman and benefactor. God Rest His soul. You will be missed David!
Arlene Hamilton, retired Landman
I am so saddened to hear of Dave's passing. I had great respect for him as a professional colleague and was always happy to catch up when our paths crossed. He was intelligent, caring and thoughtful - one of the good ones. He will be missed.
Dave was a wonderful person, always considerate and thoughtful. He had amazing poise and I admired his patience and quiet strength. I had the pleasure of working with him for only a short time, but am so thankful our lives crossed paths.
I am crushed beyond words at the sudden passing of our good friend Dave. As the family so eloquently wrote, Dave packed much into his far too short fifty-eight years and I am honoured to have been a small part of it. For reasons unknown to us, God sometimes takes the good ones early - perhaps He just needed Dave now more than we did. May God in His infinite wisdom and mercy hold David and his family and friends in the palm of His hand at this most difficult time.
Kevin Burke-Gaffney
A sad day on the planet, for us to have lost such a great human. Dave was one of the first Canuck's I met in 1993, when I arrived in Calgary, and I first got to see his passion for life, and rugby. Over the last 29 years he has inspired many with his zest for life, and seemingly never-ending time to help others. He was ALWAYS the first to raise his hand to get a job done, take a leadership stance on an issue, or just get the first round in the pub, after a hard fought game.....
His sphere of influence stretched way beyond any one of his interests in life, work, or play. He will be sorely missed........
BurningChairs......... you legend........
Love,
Brad & Pat.
I was staff advisor to Student Council when Dave was at St. Mary's High School from 1978 to 1981, and Dave already lived out the compassion, inclusiveness, and leadership that accompanied him all his life. Receive condolences from a sad man today in the moutains of Mexico.
I’ve known Dave for many years as a colleague in the Calgary oil patch. I remember him as a great guy who was passionate about all that he got involved with. He left his mark in the petroleum land community and in so many others. Gone far too soon!!
So saddened to hear today about Dave’s passing. I used to work with him and today I’ve been thinking about the many small moments where he shared a joke, brightened my day with an unexpected compliment, or gave his undivided attention when discussing something. It’s the small moments that make a life, just as much as the big, and I am very grateful to have known him. Sending my condolences to all his friends and family during this sad time.
I am so sorry to hear of Dave's passing, it seems unbelievable. I have known Dave for many years through mutual friends, the oil business and rec hockey (Dave always played defense). I just ran into Dave a couple of months ago while walking in Bridgeland. We shared a few laughs in a light hearted conversation, that is a good memory. Dave was such a friendly, salt of the earth, stand up guy. The world needs more Dave Bernatchezs.
Bob and Susan Christie
Very sorry for your loss. He will be missed.
John & Kellie Simon
My deepest condolences to the Bernatchez family.
While I only knew Dave through working with him for a couple of years, as Kristie has said, he made quite the impression on all of those who were lucky enough to have worked with him. Dave was such a wonderful person. While my words won’t do his memory justice, here are some of my favourite memories from my short time knowing him.
1. Dave would always surprise his colleagues with treats for the office. If it was a hot day, you could always count on a “Head’s up!” followed by a popsicle landing on your desk. If there was a bake sale in the lobby, Dave would always make his rounds offering goodies that he bought to share.
2. While running through Bridgeland during the annual Calgary Marathon, you could always count on Dave to be there cheering you on, no matter how early in the morning.
3. “Folk Fest Dave” I looked forward to seeing him in the beer gardens with his khaki shorts and sandals, dancing and having the best time. His joy was infectious.
Dave was such an incredibly kind, caring, giving, understanding, supportive, and fun person. He was one of a kind.
I give tribute to Dave for being the exemplary individual that he was. I grieve with all his friends and offer my deepest condolences to his family.
Dave was active on the committee of the Father Whelihan Memorial Scholarship Society right up to his passing, a society that confers scholarships to Calgary area high school students who excel in academics, athleticism, and community involvement.
Those of you who didn’t already know will not be surprised to hear that Dave was the recipient of the scholarship after he graduated from St. Mary’s High School in 1981.
He will be sadly missed.
I am sorry to hear that David has passed. I worked with David when I had just graduated from university, he was a great mentor. I also had the pleasure of knowing David through Rugby, truly a stand up guy both on and off the pitch.
It's bittersweet to read the memories of Dave. A few things stand out: Dave has had some very good friends for a long time - that's a mark of a good man. In 40+ years, I never heard Dave say a bad thing about another person but even much more impressive is the simple fact I never heard another person say a bad thing about Dave. And that is the mark of a great man. RIP Dave.
I'm so sad to hear this news. Dave was such an amazing guy. We worked together organizing our 25th High School Reunion. He was so kind and easy going. While I didn't see him often over the years, when I did, it was like no time had passed and was so easy to "catch up with". We will miss you Dave.
Dave was a great guy! We met on the St FX rugby pitch. Over the years I would see him at most St FX homecomings. We always had engaging chats and a jar or two.
In 2014 I was pleased to be in attendance, with a number of other Rugby Alumni, to see Dave inducted into the St FX Hall of Honour. This morning I reviewed the list and Dave was one of the youngest persons to receive this honour. That is the kind of guy he was. I am happy to have called him 'my friend'. I am a better man for knowing him. My sicere condolences to his family.
Shakespeare wrote in Hamlet, which best sums up my feelings: "Now cracks a noble heart. Sweet dreams my Prince; And flights of angels sing thee to thy rest" Until we meet again.
Jamie MacDougall '82 (Chip)
I am very sad to hear about Dave. I would see him from time to time, in a +15, on the street, in a restaurant and he would always have the time for a visit. He was kind and authentic, and we have lost a very special person.
Kelly Murphy
St.Mary’s ‘82
Many herein have written of Dave being the consummate gentleman and one of the kindest individuals you could ever meet and I would like to echo those words. Throughout my high school years and two summers thereafter, I played rugby with the Calgary Canucks but I started at St. FXU playing football for the first two years ('87 & '88). When I switched to rugby in my third year, our venerable Xaverian coaches, Ed Carty and Derek Wood, were asking about my playing credentials: "From Calgary? Canucks Rugby? Well then you MUST KNOW Bernatchez? One of the finest to play." And indeed, so glad I did, as Dave was a model we could all aspire to in so many ways. My condolences and prayers to Dave's family and friends (throughout the world).
My deepest condolences go out to the Bernatchez family! I am saddened to hear of Dave's passing. While I only knew Dave for a short time through work, he definitely made an impression on myself and others that he worked with. RIP Dave.
Very sad to hear of Dave's passing. My condolences go out to the Bernatchez family and to all those who had the privilege of having Dave touch their lives. He was the type of person the world needs more of and he will truly be missed.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Karen Arndt (Barry)
St. Mary's '81
So saddened and shocked to hear of Dave’s passing. I met Dave at STFX. Dave represented all that is good! He was a true gentleman. It did not matter who you were or what walk of life you came from, Dave was always interested. Kind. Gentle. Compassionate.
Theresa MacLeod
STFX ‘84
Last evening I heard from another friend that our friend Dave had passed.
My heart has sunk hearing this news, and my deepest condolences go out to the whole Bernatchez family.
It seems like yesterday when I met Dave as a kid at school (St. Michael's)...that curly haired guy, smart and athletic, and had a pair of Adidas Roms that everyone wanted and admired. (Red)
Truly someone who made an everlasting mark on the people he came in contact with.
Until another time my friend.
Glenn Chomiak
This is one of those times when you wish you could see the person one more time to tell them how special they are.
Dave was a gem of a guy, an old soul, and a perfect gentleman.
When I think of St. F. X.; he is one of the people who instantly comes to mind.
Years ago, I was in Calgary for a couple of days and called Dave at the last minute to see if he was free to meet up.
He likely had some plans for the evening or was tired from work, but he didn’t mention it; he was free.
He chose a sweet café and we chatted for hours.
Dave made others feel important and special and always had time for a fellow Xaverian!
My heart goes out to his sisters and close friends.
Edie Shaw-Ewald
So sad to hear of Dave's passing. He was a great Rugby player and an even greater Xaverian. A consummate gentleman, he touched everyone he knew both on and off the pitch. He will be greatly missed by his friends, his teammates, and all who knew him. Deepest condolences to the Bernatchez family.
Dave was my room mate in the early 90s in Crescent Heights, Calgary. He was a noble, modest person. Decent, gentle, kind and considerate, with a wide range of interests. I remember him making hors d'oeuvres when we had guests. We talked about rugby, travel, business, politics and his beloved Saint Francis Xavier University alma mater.
Although we hadn't been in close touch since the '90s, in the past year, I ran into him in North Glenmore Park and Weaselhead, where I often walk and run. He was as thoughtful and friendly as ever.
I was shocked and saddened to hear of his death and offer my condolences to his family. He was a truly admirable, honourable human being. Dave was the kind of person I hope my kids will become.
Dave was an amazing person! Remember his integrity and kindness in high school. Didn't see him a lot after, but when i did, he was the same kind, genuine person. So sorry to his family for your loss. Jane Van T
Although I haven't been in contact with Dave for many years, I was still greatly saddened to hear of his passing.
The memories I have of him are that of a true gentleman... Kind and thoughtful.
My thoughts, prayers and condolences are with his family at this time.
Be at peace my friend.
Jim Lewis
A friend for life. David was always kind, gracious, thoughtful and loyal. An intelligent and funny man who impacted this world in the very best of ways. Safe journey my friend. You will be missed beyond measure. My deepest condolences to all the family.
We are deeply saddened by the loss of such a great man. His contributions in all his endeavours will be remembered. Colin and Kathy Ogilvy
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