Davin Rand Burlingham

Davin leaves behind his wife and soulmate, Tianna, and their beloved sons Clifton and Chris, as well as his father, Rand, siblings Joel Walmsley, Alena Sherwood (Mark) and Robin Burlingham (Scott Newell), and many nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts, and friends. Davin was predeceased by his mother, Cheryl Cuelenaere, in 2023.

Born in Saskatoon on April 15, 1982, Davin was an incredibly gifted student, skipping grade four and starting Saturday morning Mandarin lessons when a teacher suggested he needed an extra challenge. He grew up playing baseball and basketball and enjoyed spending time each summer at the family cabin in Waskesiu. He began his early musical education - his life’s passion - learning jazz piano and improvisation from his teacher, Zane Hrynewich.

Davin earned a BA in History from the University of Saskatchewan, spending a semester abroad in Russia and coming home fluent in the language. He went on to complete his law degree at the University of British Columbia, following in the footsteps of his parents and grandfathers in becoming a lawyer. Davin returned to Saskatoon to article at Wardell Gillis, later joining his parents’ firm, Burlingham Cuelenaere.

Davin was a loving and devoted husband and father. He would spend hours playing at the park with his boys even after a long day of work. Davin was always playing music and telling stories, encouraging Clifton and Chris in their creative development. He loved to cook for his family, especially weekend breakfasts. Davin loved travelling. A few of his favourite trips were his honeymoon in Paris, frequent family trips to Disneyland and Edmonton, romantic getaways, and a Rheostatics tour of the Maritimes. Davin also loved hiking, cycling, skating, and cheering on the Blades, Jays, and Leafs.

As a lawyer, Davin enjoyed the challenge and intensity of court work, and loved to represent the underdog. He was committed to his sense of justice and an advocate for fair and accessible legal systems.

Davin’s heartbeat was music. He was incredibly gifted on guitar and piano, and could pick up any song he heard by ear almost instantly. He wrote, recorded, and performed dozens of original pieces as a member of earlier bands Jasper Ave and The Noble Liars, then as a solo musician. He was well known and loved in local music communities, appearing regularly at Bud’s on Broadway, Somewhere Else Pub, and many shows and festivals. His music was smart, unapologetic, and full of love.

Davin’s life was rich with accomplishments, friendships, and creative expression, but also marked by personal challenges in recent years. Those who knew him will remember his quick wit, brilliant mind, deep musicality, and the kindness he extended to those in need.