David Patrick Stannard

JANUARY 9, 1932 – OCTOBER 29, 2017

DAVID PATRICK STANNARD Sr. passed away at Vancouver General Hospital on Sunday, October 29, 2017 at the age of 85. He leaves to cherish his memory, 3 children of Medicine Hat, Alberta, Dianne Ziegenhagel, Dr. David Stannard Jr., Christine (Gary) Benson, 10 grandchildren, Jake and Madison Ziegenhagel, Jordan and Joey Stannard, Scott, Melissa, Taylor Benson, Tyler Stannard, Tanya (Mike) McCormick, Austin (Michala) Stannard and 1 great grandchild, Levi Stannard and his mother Samantha. He leaves two brothers, Joseph Stannard of Toronto and George Stannard of Sechelt, B.C. He was predeceased by parents, Davidson and Bernadette Stannard, his youngest son Daniel Stannard and two granddaughters, Kirstin Benson and Ashley Stannard. A private family service was held in Medicine Hat and a celebration of David’s life will take place spring 2018 in Vancouver, B.C.

Dad left Toronto as a young boy and headed out West with two friends, Bob Halverson and Johnny Gamble, who he stayed in contact with his whole life. The “West” brought opportunities of a career with the Plumbing and Pipefitter’s Union where dad was recently recognized as a 67 year member. During his career, dad worked on various projects throughout Canada and the USA. He was highly respected for his knowledge and organizational skills related to all aspects of his field.

Summer vacations growing up always centered on where dad was employed at the time and what history that area of B.C. held. From panning for gold, staking a claim or fossil hunting, Dad’s thirst to experience firsthand the way of life of “times gone by” became a focus of our summer holidays. At times we “rolled our eyes” when dad announced we would be stopping by the next river “to do a little panning”. Looking back he exposed us to experiences that just can’t be taught in school giving us unique stories to share with our children about our “DAD”.

Dad’s interest in history turned into a passion when he chose to learn about his mother’s life in Ireland and her journey to Canada. This curiosity prompted him to join the BC Genealogical Society and thus began years of researching and uncovering family records. He was a vital part of the Society as he helped establish their library in Vancouver, overseeing the fundraising for renovations of the building, erecting shelves for the archives, to driving truck, his commitment to the task was unstoppable.

Stanley Park was particularly special to dad. It was in Stanley Park he made connections with the inhabitants of the park, skunks, chipmunks and beavers etc. He was kind of like the “animal whisperer of Stanley Park”! Who else has a picture of themselves with 4 skunks beneath their feet or petting a beaver on their business card?

Dad loved to socialize, always had a story to tell (albeit according to the world of Dave) and was at all times impeccably dressed, never a hair out of place. Dad’s loyalty to help his fellow man allowed him to become friends with various people across Canada and the USA often because of his long standing friendship with Bill W and many others.

It was during his times spent at Stanley Park that he was inspired to write poetry and many, many books of his work have been handed out to family and friends. He loved poetry and he was always jotting an inspirational verse or two on a napkin to be incorporated into a poem at a later time.

Once a diagnosis of COPD was established, dad used the same determination he was always known for to fight this disease. He attended every Lung Functioning Clinic trying to learn everything one needed to cope with COPD. His resolve to research all aspects of this ailment and ways to extend his life created a new focus. His struggles were immense the last couple of years as he lived with the disease and at times lived on sheer willpower to stay alive. As he described it in his own words, it was “unbelievable” how hard the fight truly was. Dad fought harder than ever, as if he was at war, but in the end, the disease won the battle. We can all agree he was successful in his quest to extend his life from such a devastating illness as he was only 2 months away from his 86th birthday.

Dad’s love for Vancouver lived deep within his soul and the passion he felt for the city he treasured could not be contained. As with everything he did, it was about sharing his knowledge and his experiences which he felt were contributing to the betterment of someone else’s life. His heart was always in the right place and he truly will be missed by all who knew him.

Cremation services were performed by Vancouver Memorial Services and Crematorium in Vancouver, B.C. and a private family service was held in Medicine Hat, Alberta.

A Celebration of David’s life will be held in the spring of 2018 at Stanley Park, the place he loved. To be included in this celebration, please email your name and phone number to; [email protected]

It’s Time

By David Patrick Stannard

Well my friends,

We’ll soon be history.

Whatever happened,

Remains a mystery.

Adventures out there

In the waiting,

Yet we sit here

Hesitating.

So much to say,

So little time.

I’m proud to say,

Your friends of mine.

Each one of you is

A ray of light.

Collectively, you’ve

Won this fight.

Hindsight measures

Our success.

Your aim’s been high,

Not more or less.

Each day starts with

The morning dew.

Each day could use

More folks like you.

In days ahead,

When things get tough,

Think back to when

These times were rough.

As we enjoy the features,

We know these shows have ends.

There’s little else that one can say,

God bless, good luck my friends.