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The family of David O'Brien uploaded a photo
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
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Andy Stephenson lit a candle
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
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R.I.P David
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Doug Deporter, Helen Partyka and Suzanne Fraser lit a candle
Friday, October 2, 2015
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Michelle and family we are sorry for your loss, he was a great guy. We had great laughs when he came to our office every four months for dental cleanings. We shall miss him.
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Thursday, October 1, 2015
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It was early September 1982, my first day at UBC Law School and I had the excellent fortune of meeting David G. O'Brien, both of us trolling the "Rooms to Rent" board outside the campus Housing office - very much pre-Internet days. It was one of those rare occasions in life where I've felt an instant connection with a total stranger, owing in part to many parallel experiences in our lives to that date: both being fish out of water from our respective home towns, having left girlfriends behind to pursue this legal "thang", having both lost our Fathers at a young age, a love of shinny (especially of the Eddie Shore, old time variety), a passion for reading the Atlantic Monthly, Harper's and the Globe & Mail, a proclivity for speaking in bad English accents, a curiosity for up and coming alternative bands, and on and on it went.
It was my great pleasure and privilege to share many a great, laughter-filled moment with "Reg'nald" over the next three years, whether it be on the frozen pond (aka Thunderbird Arena), at many a party and concert venue, hangin' with our adopted, honorary-legal buddy Brad Coates, and wherever else life's little adventures would take us.
Following graduation, O'B returned to Toronto - sadly, for myself and his many friends out on the West Coast, but to the delight of his family and friends in T.O. I feel fortunate as well that, despite the distance, we managed to keep up an ongoing line of communication as we each progressed through the next stages of our lives, in our careers, our various sporting pursuits and, of course, with our respective families - and unfortunately for David, his battle with cancer.
It was with a very heavy heart that I recently received the news from Marie that David's cancer had returned with a vengeance, ending several months of unusual radio silence that seemed more onerous with every passing day. And now the end has come for David, far too soon and the world is surely a lesser place for his passing. My sincerest condolences to Michelle, Zachary, Jake and Hayley and to his sisters and other family members and to his many friends, who like me were so blessed to be exposed to his wonderful humour, wisdom, passion for life, inner strength, determination, kindness and friendship.
Neil Melliship and family (Shannon, Celeste and Lauren).
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Jean-Gilles Pelletier posted a condolence
Thursday, October 1, 2015
Between 1992 and 2008, David and I played squash at the Y at lunch time 2-3 times a week. It was nothing but fantastic. Our rallies would go on forever. We would be in a trans. Cat and mouse. Soo nice. They were the best times. I could never have enough of these amazing games. It was only years later that i figured out that on the very morning of each of these squash lunch dates, David had run half a marathon with his crazy running pals... And that he would top it off with a late hockey game. That he managed to get any hours of "work" done between sporting activities remains a mystery to this day.
I loved David and will always miss our times together.
He was wonderful to be with.
J-Gilles
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The Scully Family lit a candle
Tuesday, September 29, 2015
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We are sorry for your loss.
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Angelo Amenta lit a candle
Monday, September 28, 2015
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Dave and I had adjoining offices for a number of years. He was always upbeat even after he was diagnosed with cancer, which he confronted with strength and typical Dave humour. He was incredibly smart and well-read. A true gentleman and all-round good guy. Although we were close in age, I always considered Dave a role model, a sentiment I'm sure he'd laugh at. Michelle, Zachary, Jake and Hayley I am very sorry for your loss.
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Damian Dupuy lit a candle
Monday, September 28, 2015
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I will miss Dave's humorous rendition of his latest marathon or ultra exploit while running into him at the Central Y. He was a true gentleman and he will always be an inspiration. My thoughts to his family and many, many friends.
Ní bheidh a leithéid arís ann.
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Bruce and Margaret Leslie posted a condolence
Sunday, September 27, 2015
Michelle, Zachary, Jake and Hayley - we send our deepest sympathies to you all. We will hold wonderful memories of David: baseball, Christmas parties, joint birthday celebrations, New Years eves, steak and lobster, pots and pans. Our thoughts are with you.
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Blair Shunk - on behalf of The Banff Jasper Relay lit a candle
Saturday, September 26, 2015
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So sorry to hear of David's passing, Jim Everard would tell me of someone that was struggling on their team, and I am sure that David is one of the reasons that AMEC Avengers come back every year. Hang in there guys - and let's run next year's race in memory of David. Condolences to all of David's family and friends from all of us working on the Relay.
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norman deneault posted a condolence
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
As a childhood friend of Dave's I am so sorry for your loss. The mention of Dave's name brings back memories of hours spent at the Wineva household, the hours we spent at the beaches including the time Dave and I fell through the ice on Lake Ontario and walked home with our pants freezing harder than cardboard. The many games of hockey we played together for St. Johns...the memories go on and on and a smile comes to my face. I know the memories he leaves behind for his family will bring many smiles for the rest of your lives.
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Anne & Brett Hall (EYHA team) lit a candle
Monday, September 21, 2015
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Although I had only known you a very short time, seeing you were a friendly happy soul was clearly visible to the world around you. Heaven has gained a bright glowing light while we here have grown a little dimmer. One day we will meet again, though for now we'll miss your presence and our chats at the arena. Enjoy Heaven's paradise dear friend, you're in the best place you could ever imagine.
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Robert Magee lit a candle
Monday, September 21, 2015
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The hockey rink will not be the same without you David. You were a great coach who taught the kids to play hard but to carry themselves with honour.
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Susan Lee Fraser lit a candle
Monday, September 21, 2015
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Sometimes, there are no words, just feelings of sadness and loss, however the memories of love and laughter will remain forever in our hearts. One very special man, one very loving soul will be missed by so many. God Bless, Dave xoxo Suse
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Horan Family lit a candle
Monday, September 21, 2015
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David we remember many happy family times spent with the OBriens. We have not spent as much time together as our families grew but still cherished any visits. Gone too soon but in a much happier place with his parents, aunts, uncles and cousins. Love Mary Louise, Joanne (deceased 2010), John and Trisha and families
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Debbie Werner lit a candle
Monday, September 21, 2015
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If I had picture dictionary and was looking up the definition of a good and honourable man...it would be David's picture I would find. Miss his smile and his swagger.
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Daniel Rikely lit a candle
Sunday, September 20, 2015
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With his positive attitude and determination, David was an inspiration to many of us running out of the Central Y. He will be greatly missed.
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Greg Leverton (school colleague) posted a condolence
Sunday, September 20, 2015
Dear Marie and Family, Please accept my sincere condolences on the death of David Gerard. I never met him but I always felt the proud glow he emitted whenever Joan or Marie spoke of him. Time will heal, and as we know, he will always be with us....just in a different way. A warm hug, Marie....God bless.
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Patricia Lee posted a condolence
Sunday, September 20, 2015
David worked with us at the Department of Justice. He remained a good friend even after he left our office to practice law on his own. I along with many colleagues liked David immensely and admired his many qualities of friendship, loyalty, wonderful sense of humour, love of family and life. A wonderful person who will be missed. Patrica Lee
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Jane O'Brien lit a candle
Saturday, September 19, 2015
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David you were and always will be a light in my life. You may be in heaven now but I will love you and miss you forever. Thank you so much for being the best brother I could have had. Love you little brother ...oxox Jane
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Elaine Hick lit a candle
Saturday, September 19, 2015
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A truly decent guy. Top shelf.
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Kevin Ireland lit a candle
Saturday, September 19, 2015
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Dave always had a place in my early adulthood memories as a stand up and go to guy. He will always be remembered. The parties at his buddy Barry lee's house the ensuing pick up hockey games at Ted Reeve and Mid Scarborough. Time always well spent when Dave was there. Thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this time.
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Mike MacDonald lit a candle
Saturday, September 19, 2015
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I will miss your positive energy, laughter and wonderful smile !
You were a great friend...
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Michael and Sandra Tedesco lit a candle
Saturday, September 19, 2015
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It has been an honour to know and to love you my friend. The outpouring of grief from your friends and family is a testament to the many lives you have touched.
A special thanks to Marie for going above and beyond - your selfless love and advocacy helped David to live his life his way, with dignity, until the end.
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The Nichol family lit a candle
Saturday, September 19, 2015
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To an avid hockey dad and lover of the game - we will miss you!
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Siobhan mccarthy posted a condolence
Saturday, September 19, 2015
Michelle, Zachary, Hayley and Jake I am so sorry to hear about David's passing. I have so many fond memories of him playing baseball, doing the puzzles in the globe, popping popcorn and just sitting in your kitchen chatting. He was a lovely man and I can only imagine the loss you are feeling. My family's thoughts are with you. While I can't be there for the celebration of his life please know that I will be thinking of you and him with much fondness. Siobhan.
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Sherri Solomon & Cooper Triggs posted a condolence
Saturday, September 19, 2015
The first time I met David he was reading a book at Zachary’s hockey game, I pulled out my book and sat down beside him. David’s intelligent, insightfulness and amazing /dry sense of humour made 2 seasons of good/bad hockey so much fun! Cooper always enjoyed his post commentary –good memories that we will always hold on to
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Michael and Sandra Tedesco posted a condolence
Saturday, September 19, 2015
Zach, Jake and Hayley. The loss of a father at such a young age is a unique experience that no one can truly share or understand. We hope you will be comforted by your loving memories of your father in the difficult days ahead!
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The Nichols posted a condolence
Saturday, September 19, 2015
M, H, J and Z - We are so sorry that you guys have lost a husband and a father. Lots of love, the Nichol family
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David Spiro lit a candle
Friday, September 18, 2015
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David was a trusted colleague at the Department of Justice, a worthy opponent after I returned to private practice and a wise counsel to whom I referred individuals who needed an honest, hard-working tax lawyer. His hearty laugh and ever-present good humour were contagious. We will miss him a great deal.
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Michael Block posted a condolence
Friday, September 18, 2015
Dear Michelle, no words of mine could be any real consolation. He was a fine, intelligent and unusual man. A true gentleman who will be much missed by Riverdale and his professional colleagues.
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Jim Ayres lit a candle
Thursday, September 17, 2015
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Rest in peace my friend. I will cherish our friendship.
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Richard, Bayla, Abe and Hana posted a condolence
Monday, September 14, 2015
Richard, Bayla, Abe and Hana made a donation to The Canadian National Institute For The Blind - L'Institut national canadien pour les aveugles
We are very sorry to hear about your loss. From our family to yours, our most heartfelt sympathies.
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Sheldon Freeman, Sharlene Wilder & Family posted a condolence
Monday, September 14, 2015
Sheldon Freeman, Sharlene Wilder & Family made a donation to THE CHILDREN'S WISH FOUNDATION OF CANADA/LA FONDATION CANADIENNE REVES D'ENFANTS
Our deepest condolences to your entire family on your tragic loss. Our thoughts are with all of you. May you all find strength in your fond memories. Warmly, Sheldon, Sharlene, Noah, Emily and Hannah
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Bill Ross posted a condolence
Monday, September 14, 2015
Bill Ross made a donation to Banff-Jasper Relay B rain Tumour Foundation of Canada - http://www.braintumour.ca/634/contact-us
We will never forget Dave for his perseverance and incredibly clever sense of humour. He will be sorely missed by all those that were touched by his candor and friendship.
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Tax Section - Department of Justice posted a condolence
Monday, September 14, 2015
Tax Section - Department of Justice made a donation to The Canadian National Institute For The Blind - L'Institut national canadien pour les aveugles
Sincere condolences to The O'Brien Family from the Tax Section of the Department of Justice.
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Joseph and Clare posted a condolence
Monday, September 14, 2015
Joseph and Clare made a donation to Banff-Jasper Relay B rain Tumour Foundation of Canada - http://www.braintumour.ca/634/contact-us
Our thoughts and prayers are with you
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Dominique, Phil and Jasmine posted a condolence
Monday, September 14, 2015
Dominique, Phil and Jasmine made a donation to THE CHILDREN'S WISH FOUNDATION OF CANADA/LA FONDATION CANADIENNE REVES D'ENFANTS
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. As this difficult time comes to an end may you all continue to be strong and grow in peace.
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All of the Keasts posted a condolence
Monday, September 14, 2015
All of the Keasts made a donation to Banff-Jasper Relay B rain Tumour Foundation of Canada - http://www.braintumour.ca/634/contact-us
We are very sorry to hear about David. He was amazing, and really fought hard to live his life to the fullest. We were trying to come down for the celebration of life, but we are unable to be there. From our family to yours, our most heartfelt sympathies.
