David Burdett

David Neil Burdett

            It is with a sense of great loss and sorrow that the family sadly announces the tragic and unexpected passing of David at the age of 61.

            He will be greatly missed by his devoted wife of 39 years, Carol-Ann, whom he affectionally called Armpit; loving children Graham (Tanya) and Shona (Bryan), and his adored grandchildren Alice, Lochlan, Scotlynn and Macklen, as well as his sister and brothers and countless friends and family. David was predeceased by his parents, Patricia and Charlie Burdett.

            David was born on January 26, 1959 in Eriksdale and raised on the family farm near Clarkleigh. He occasionally attended Lundar School to socialize. He was more interested in breaking horses, hunting, fishing, trapping, playing hockey and partying with his friends than studying.

            David first started working for the HBC in construction in 1976 with his Uncle Stan when in 1979 he had a snowmobile accident which hospitalized him for over 6 months. It was at this time he met Carol who was volunteering at the hospital and they began dating shortly after he was discharged. In 1980 they married in Iqaluit and after the birth of their two children in Winnipeg, David was promoted to Maintenance Engineer which had them move to Iqaluit in 1986. In 1990, their last move brought them to East Selkirk when David was promoted to a desk job at Gibraltar House as a Project Manager of Construction. He continued what would become a more than 40 year career with HBC and The Northwest Company diligently working his way up to the position of Director of Store Planning & Engineering. His dedication to the company was unmatched and his family was beyond proud of all that he achieved.

David always looked forward to visits to England to spend time with Carol’s family who held a special place in his heart. His generosity and love for his mother-in-law, Hilda Graham, brought her over to Canada every year for 32 years. Work aside, his passions included golf, hunting and ice fishing which increased his ever widening circle of friends. David will always be remembered as a loyal husband, relentlessly dedicated dad and grandfather, beloved colleague, true friend and a real gentleman with high principles. His crooked smile, laugh and distinct voice will be greatly missed. He was a mentor, role model and an example to many. His kind demeanour, sense of humour and dependability were hallmarks of his character.

Gone too soon and a gift to us all.

A private Celebration of Life will be held at Gilbart Funeral Home on Saturday, July, 4, 2020. We welcome others who wish to pay their respects back to Carol’s backyard from 3:00-6:00 p.m. to continue the celebration. Respecting COVID-19 restrictions please practice social distancing, only cold drinks will be served. B.Y.O.C. if required.

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