Tribute

David (Dave) C. Wilkinson passed away January 17, 2017 at the age of 83, at his home in Langley, BC from heart failure. Dave was born near Ormiston, Saskatchewan. He was the 15th of 17 children including 4 sets of twins, himself being one of those twins with his brother Dan. His father was an only child from Belfast, Ireland. His mother was of German descent, born in Little Falls, Montana. All of his immediate family, except for his youngest sister Ethel, are predeceased including his twin daughter, Leslie Jo. He leaves to mourn: his wife of 58 years Doreen (Noni), daughter Judy (John), grandchildren Luke and Melody, and many beloved nieces and nephews, as well as his sister, Ethel, Leesburg, Fla. Dave came to Lloydminster in 1957 and opened Leed’s Ladies and Mens Wear, followed by Leed’s Fashion Fabrics and Draperies and the Discount Department Store. For over 30 years, Dave enjoyed the pleasure of serving the area in all his businesses and in being a popular friend and supporter to the people of the city and surrounding area in all its growth and development. His civic service was spent on the local Chamber of Commerce, being a member of the board for several years. He donated many hours and lent his support to many other issues facing the town. One of his most satisfying achievements was the development and growth of the Lloydminster Farmers’ Bonspiel and the Lloydminster Mens’ Curling Bonspiel over the years. Dave enjoyed spending many hours with friends curling, playing pool, ski-dooing, fishing and duck hunting along with playing many hands of cribbage and poker. He had also been actively involved in the harness racing sport as horse owner and spectator. In 1988, Dave and Doreen moved to the Elk Point, St Paul, Bonnyville and Heinsburg area where they spent the next ten years developing various businesses:  a Subway franchise in St. Paul, a Discount Store in Bonnyville, and operating the Double J Gas and Grocery at Heinsburg. Dave very much enjoyed serving his customers, cared personally about those he worked with, and loved helping to teach and mentor young people and kids who often helped with little jobs.  He worked with children for several years in the Awana program in the Elk Point Baptist Church.  He also served as Greeter, Building Maintenance and Deacon during his time in Elk Point. Lloydminster and area became Dave’s heart’s home through family, church and business. As Dave moved into retirement, he and Doreen made their final move to Langley, BC, where he was able to thoroughly enjoy being part of his children's lives. The family wishes to recognize and express their gratitude and thankfulness for all the professional people who came to their aid last Tuesday.

A memorial service will be held January 30, 2017 at 2 pm at Christian Life Assembly (CLA), West Chapel. 21277 56 Avenue, Langley BC .