David Allan Jewell

David Allan Jewell of Dundas, Ontario, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on January 25, 2023, after a short battle with leukemia. He was 66 years old. David was born to Fred and Elsa Jewell on February 11, 1956, in Grimsby, Ontario. David grew up in a loving family who instilled in him an appreciation for nature, animals, and adventure. He spent his summers roaming the outdoors at the family cottage in Muskoka, which our family cherishes to this day. He could keep a group easily entertained by telling stories of his youth and the mischief he would get up to during those years. This was also when his love of cars began, a passion well-known to his friends and family. Through his father, a Baptist minister, and his mother, a nurse, David developed a strong faith, a love of learning, and an interest in healthcare. After completing his undergraduate degree at the University of Windsor, he earned a Master's degree in Social Work and a Master’s degree in Health Science at the University of Toronto. He later completed another Master's degree at the University of Toronto in Health Administration. He began his career in social work at St. Joseph’s Healthcare in Hamilton. He later moved to St. Peter’s Hospital, where he was Director of the Regional Geriatric Program Central for 15 years and the Administrative Director for the Centre for Studies in Aging. He retired at age 59 but continued working part-time at McMaster University, where he taught for 35 years. He worked in various departments, including the Michael DeGroote School of Medicine, the Physician Assistant Program, and the Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences. He was still teaching in the Bachelor of Health Sciences Program when he passed. While David left us far too soon, his impact on those who knew him will be felt for years to come. David was happiest outside and often went for walks, worked in his garden, or spent time by the lake. He loved to read, a passion he passed on to his children and grandchildren. He was known for his witty, dry sense of humour and his gentle heart. He had the rare ability to live life in the moment and appreciate his blessings. He considered it a privilege to help others. David held many titles in life, but his favourite role was being a father and “Pa”. He was always there for his children and grandchildren, providing love, support, and encouragement. He was their biggest fan. David is survived by his wife, Marilyn, his two children, Kristyn (Derek) and Gregory, and his beloved grandchildren, Remy and Luc. He is also survived by his sister Christine Tracey (Ken) and their children Jesse (Alessandro) and Jamie (Sarah), and sister Lynn Jewell Coon (Kevin) and their children Nathan (Mikayla) and Nicole. As well as by his brother-in-law, Perry Fowler (Bridget), their children Cameron (Jasmine), Peyton, and Emily, and his mother-in-law, Ruby Fowler. David was predeceased by his parents, Fred and Elsa Jewell, and his father-in-law, Gilbert Fowler. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. David’s family will host a Celebration of Life ceremony on Saturday, February 4, 2023, at the Salvation Army Meadowlands Community Church, 187 Stone Church Road, Ancaster, ON, L9K 0A3. Visitation will begin at 1 p.m., followed by a Service of Celebration at 2 p.m. No need for sombre attire. We will be remembering the joy David brought to all of us. Donations can be made in his name to Children Believe (childrenbelieve.ca), or please consider a blood or monetary donation to Canadian Blood Services (blood.ca) on his behalf.