David Lawrence Bretell

Who was Dave? He was a family man. He loved his wife, Cindy, his children, Mark (Adrienne) and Jocelyn. He enjoyed coaching Mark and his friends in both hockey and baseball. With Jocelyn, he shared his love of movies, spending many hours rewatching Star Wars and Lord of the Rings for the millionth time. His grandchildren, Rossa and Rowan, were a great gift to him. He was so glad to have moved to Calgary to watch them grow up.

Dave loved to go camping, even though many of our camping trips were more rain than shine. He was always just happy to be out there enjoying the great outdoors, whether on his boat, at the campsite, or “deck time” on the patio at home. Dave and Cindy shared many adventures throughout their years together, with Dave always staying calm no matter the chaos around him.

Those who knew Dave will always speak fondly of his deep devotion to others. He was patient, kind, and gentle. He chose his friends carefully, and cherished the lifelong friends he had made. He loved his family dogs, and they loved him right back—which might have had something to do with all the treats he snuck them. Dave truly was a special person, and our lives are a lot less bright without him.

Dave was predeceased by his father, Larry Bretell (2008). In addition to his immediate family, Dave is survived by his mother, Bert Bretell, his brother Russ (Maureen), his sister Shari (Terry), and numerous in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

As sad as we are to say goodbye, we take comfort in knowing that Dave is finally at peace. A rare, degenerative neurological disease robbed Dave of his golden years, but we know he is back to quietly watching over all of us, even as he’s resting his eyes.

A Memorial Service will be held at Foster’s Garden Chapel, 3220 – 4 Street N.W., Calgary (across from Queen’s Park Cemetery) on Friday, November 21, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Those wishing to attend the service virtually, may do so using the link below the service information.