David Maclaren

David William Maclaren

David passed away September 23rd, 2020 at the St. Boniface Hospital. Cancer claimed his life but never his spirit. His memory will be cherished by his wife Beth of 54 years as well as sons Allan, wife Pam, Don, wife Naomi, Scott, wife Joanne and daughter Leanne, husband Fred. His grandchildren, who were so precious to him and who adored him in return are Brett and Amy, Shaina and Joel, Iain, Mark and Katherine, David John and Caitlyn.

Also left with special memories are brother Ron, wife Edmay, sister Betty, husband Ron and beloved nieces, nephews and their families. David was the eldest of the Farmer family cousins of the Napinka/Melita area. He treasured his relationships with those Aunties, Uncles and cousins.

His parents, Kit and Allan Maclaren, made their home in Libau, Selkirk and Letellier and then back to Selkirk in 1960. David loved Selkirk and became very involved in community life. He was a part of the Selkirk Fair and Rodeo committee, Kiwanis and Rotary clubs, Selkirk Football Club, coached baseball and served a term on the Selkirk School Board. He was chairman of the opening and closing ceremonies for Selkirk’s Centennial, board member of ARC Industries, Marine Museum and Highland Gathering. He also served as President of the Chamber of Commerce.

Faith was an important part of his life as a member of Knox Presbyterian Church. As a young lad, Saturday mornings were spent cleaning and polishing at the church under the watchful eye of his Scottish Grandmother. Following in his Mother’s footsteps, he became an Elder at the church. In these last weeks David, Beth and family were comforted by the prayers from the church community and visits made by Knox minister Anthon Bouw in hospital.

Dad was the best-ever fan of both his children and grandchildren - cheering them on in many school activities and a long list of sporting events whether they participated, coached or refereed. There were many road trips to games and tournaments with a van full of athletes. He loved to be involved and he gave so generously of his time. Everyone knew Grandpa Mac was at the game when the unmistakable TOOT TOOT of his special steam engine horn was heard. Full of fun and funny sayings, the teller of tall tales and Grandpa groaner jokes, we are left with so many great memories.

He was a big Blue Bomber fan. He also enjoyed the Jets, Blue Jays, Celtics and Raptors. His love of curling started as a teen when he would curl with his Dad and school chums in Letellier. Many hours in the winter months were spent watching Manitoba curling teams on tv, urging them on. David, Beth and Leanne made a special trip to Las Vegas to watch The Continental Cup of Curling competition.

He was so excited to plan trips and especially enjoyed being behind the wheel. Whether it was a short drive “there and back to see how far it is” or across Canada and the US to visit family, he loved driving. He also enjoyed bigger trips to Hawaii for a cruise, Disneyland with Leanne’s family and a bus tour of the East coast of Canada.

David, better known as Dave at work and in the community, thrived in the area of sales most of his life, earning the trust and respect of his customers at Gordon Motors and Selkirk Chrysler. He had a great reputation for putting the customer first. For his high sales achievement he was honoured with the Chrysler Senate Award.  Even as he moved on to “retirement” he was never without a job, working at Domo Selkirk until just recently.

Dad was very proud to take part in the Olympic Torch Relay for the Calgary Olympics in 1988. During the run he ensured that our family got to touch the torch as we watched the run at Portage and Main. He continued to wear his jacket from the relay and recount the story fondly to anyone who asked.

The family sends appreciation to staff at HSC, Misericordia and St. Boniface Hospitals. Special thanks to the St. B Palliative Care unit for their specialized care and compassion.

For many years David participated in the Terry Fox Run.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to the Terry Fox Foundation or the Knox Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund.

Dad and Grandpa, friend and fan, inspiration and strong example. “God Bless, See you in the funny papers, Touched you last!”

In keeping with his wishes cremation has taken place and a private family graveside service will be held. The service will be available via this link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aubalb2PFIQ

Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk in care of arrangements.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of David Maclaren, please visit our floral store.