David Wilmere Ross

David Wilmere Ross

1953 - 2020

On December 12, 2019 David Wilmere Ross, with family at his side, stepped out of this life and into eternity.

Eldest son of Murray and Millie Ross, David’s journey in this life began on September 25, 1953. Leaving home at 18, David pursued a variety of jobs including raising and training guard dogs, farming and ranching, raising sheep, horses, cattle, wild boar and bison. He found employment in fish plants, meat packing plants and shipyards as well as security and commercial janitorial. He made his home in many communities including Salmon Arm and Tofino, British Columbia, Whitehorse, Yukon and Winnipeg, Manitoba. 

In 1999 David returned to Swan River.  In 2005 he left the workforce due to a prior work injury and other health concerns.  Shortly after coming home David joined the H.E.R.O Club.  Through club activities he met Grace Houle. The two had fourteen cherished years together.

David was resourceful and always endeavoured to help others.  David was always well prepared for any eventuality and extremely well read on a variety of subjects. He immensely enjoyed working with Grace at the H.E.R.O Club functions, time outdoors, whether it was fishing, hunting or trapping, he treasured it all and had many interesting stories to tell.  He cherished his coffee time with family and friends. He was very proud of his nieces and nephew.

After learning that he had stage four cancer he was determined to show as much kindness as possible to the staff in Dauphin and Swan River hospitals.  He made it a point to know the names of all the healthcare staff whether it was dietary, housekeeping, healthcare aides or nurses. On a particularly rough day when he was asked, “how are they treating you today?”, he replied “Only the best, only the best”. He was very grateful for all the people who spent time visiting him these included Pastor Bob, Courtney, Winston, Dale and many others.

David was predeceased by his parents Murry and Millie Ross (Roye), brother Wilfred Ross, sister-in-law Bev and partner Grace Houle.  He is survived by brothers Allen, Lorne (Susan); nieces Sidny (Jeff), Rian and Johanna (Matthew); and nephew Maxwell (Carla).

If friends so desire, donations in David’s name may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

A private graveside service was held on Saturday, July 11, 2020 at the Riverside-Harlington Cemetery.

Swan Valley Funeral Services

363 Kelsey Trail, Swan River, Manitoba

204-734-5775

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