

Born in Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, on December 22, 1947, David was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Ghislaine Purfield; daughter Dominique Purfield (and fiancé, Dave Rendle); son Derek Purfield (and wife, Kayla Purfield); and his cherished grandsons, Easton Forrest and Hayes Purfield. Hayes, just three years old, lovingly called his grandpa “PowPow”.
He also leaves behind his siblings Eric Purfield (Ollie), Brian Purfield (Randi), Janet Porteous (Dennis), Craig Purfield, and Neil Purfield (Elizabeth) Danielle Lacelle (Albert). He will be remembered with love by numerous nieces and nephews, close friends, and his extended family of 5 step-grandchildren, the Blue’s, and the Wahl’s.
Monika and Keith Wahl were there every day helping the family out in many ways and visiting with David until the end; we are forever grateful for their love and support during this difficult time.
David was predeceased by his parents, Leonard and Ann Purfield, his sisters Dorothy Jean Purfield and Carol Lamb and his brother-in-law Jacques Lavoie.
A skilled millwright and mechanic, David began his career at Nornada Mines in Rouyn-Noranda before moving to British Columbia in1969 to work at Brenda Mines until its closure in 1990. His passion and expertise in mining took him around the world- to places like Guyana, the Dominican Republic, Turkey, and the Yukon -before he retired from the mining industry in 2017.
Retirement didn’t slow him down. He joined his good friend Joe’s Team at Border Plumbing, where he found not just a job but a second family. He was proud to be part of the Border Team and remained dedicated right up until May 16,2025, when he fell ill.
David was a kind, generous, and hardworking man who loved his family fiercely. He worked tirelessly to provide and support, and he lived by example – never quitting, always showing up, and doing everything with heart.
And of course, David was the biggest Montreal Canadiens fan – hockey nights were sacred, and he wore his love for the Habs with pride.
Special thanks to his sister Janet Porteous, whose support meant so much during David’s illness. She travelled to be by his side and was an incredible source of strength for the entire family. Though she couldn’t be there at the end, her love and care will never be forgotten.
We would like to express our deepest gratitude to Dave Rendle, the unwavering rock of our family during this difficult time. His strength, kindness, and tireless support has carried us through the many challenges of these past couple of months. From helping with arrangements to ensuring appointments are kept and every detail was taken care of, Dave has been by our side every step of the way. We truly could not have gotten through this without him.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, in Kelowna, BC (location to be announced). All who knew and loved David are welcome to join us in honouring a life so fully and generously lived.
David’s legacy is one of love, hard work, loyalty, and quiet strength – and his memory will live on in everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.firstmemorialfuneralkelowna.com
Arrangements entrusted with First Memorial Funeral Services (Dignity Memorial) Kelowna, BC 250-762-2299
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