David DW Wallace Bennett

Peacefully with family at his side, on Sunday September 15, 2013.

Dave, Dad, Gramps, DW, David Wallace Bennett.

Husband, Father, Brother, Grandfather, Teacher, Businessman, World Traveler, Bridge Player, Fisherman, Gardener, Golfer, Fast Friend.

Dave was born in Vancouver in 1933 to George and Barbara Bennett. He met Ruby LeMarquand at Normal School (Teachers College). They married in 1956 and shared more than 55 years together. After a year teaching in Dawson Creek, Dave began his career in the clothing business with The Hudson’s Bay Company, which took them to Victoria, where Ruby and Dave began their family. In 1971 Dave and family moved to Winnipeg where he worked with Diamond and Company and Gemini Fashions. His career took him around the world and he became a very well respected importer and “go to” person for sourcing Asian manufacturing. He was known for being a straight shooter for whom honesty and fairness were of the utmost importance.

Dave was always ready to drive, fly, boat or ride a train in search of adventure. Dave and Ruby traveled extensively across Canada and to dozens of countries around the world. But for all his travels, there was no happier place for Dave than a gathering of family around the dining room table. He had a passion for good food, wine and great conversation. Wherever Dave lived and travelled, he made and sustained many rich and lifelong friendships. He also had a green thumb and a particular love for growing tomatoes. He was a member of the 78th Fraser Highlanders and the Manitoba Club.

Dave is survived by Ruby, his children Russ (Laurel), Colleen (Stephen), Bruce (Shawna), Sheila (John) and Kathy. His grandchildren, David (Kajia) Natalie, Christopher, and Sean and his sisters Lorraine and Nan, and their families and sister in-law Betty and her family.

He was predeceased by his granddaughter Cara.

All of us love and cherish him and will miss his good company, unwavering support, positive attitude and the joy he found in so many people and places which were all brought home for us to share.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CancerCare Manitoba or The Alzheimer’s Society of Manitoba.

We would like to thank Cancer Care Manitoba with Dr Wong and his team and the compassionate professionals on 5B at St Boniface Hospital, who made his final days as comfortable as possible.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, October 12th at 1:00 p.m. at the Manitoba Club, 194 Broadway Winnipeg, Manitoba.