Dr. David Jonathan Collett

Born on September 30, 1936, in Calgary, Alberta, David was the third of six children. He spent his early years in Alberta’s Peace River Country, living in Worsley, Hines Creek, North Star, and Fairview. He graduated high school as both the school’s premier troublemaker and valedictorian. In 1955, he married the love of his life, Colleen, with whom he shares three children, seven grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. David and Colleen’s marriage spanned 71 years, and for much of that time they were inseparable.

As a teacher and principal, he was known for his ability to see through students’ tricks, many of which were personally familiar to him. After teaching at Victoria Composite High School for several years, he became principal of Grande Prairie Composite High School from 1969 to 1975. He earned a Master of Education in 1969, and Doctor of Philosophy in 1981, both from the University of Alberta. He was a Professor of Educational Policy Studies at the University of Alberta from 1975 until his retirement in 1997. Many of his students' papers were returned smelling faintly of chlorine, having been marked in the hot tub.

Together, David and Colleen were intrepid travellers, visiting well over fifty countries and all seven continents. When home, he spent much of his time at Jackfish Lake, driving the boat and perfectly cooking eggs for his grandchildren at “Camp Jackfish”, where he shared his love for water-skiing and ski-dooing with them.

Above all, David was devoted to his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Colleen; his sister, Charlotte; children, Terry (Mike), Brenda, and David (Janice); grandchildren, Meghan, Candice (Jari), Tiffany (Todd), Sarah (Chris), Sam (Amber), Neekoo, Keon (Angela), and Emon; and great-grandchildren, Cameron, Zachary, Remy, Sage, Max, and Ella. He was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Ethel Collett, and siblings, Gladys, Ron, Philip, and Chuck. He will be remembered for his sharp mind, quick wit, adventurous spirit, and unwavering love for his family.