David Sterling Mackenzie died peacefully in Élisabeth Bruyère Hospital on February 19, 2020, in Ottawa, Ontario, at the age of 65.
David is survived by his children Jason, Jeffrey (Lisa), and Joey; siblings Gary, Ronald and Kevin, grandsons Keegan and Kayden, and his former spouse Diane Gareau. He is preceded in death by his parents Arnold and Eileen, and granddaughter Makayla Brideau.
David was born on August 19, 1954, in Halifax, Nova Scotia. A member of the Canadian Army Signals Corps and Canadian Army Reserve, he served Canadians in a career spanning forty years, including in Europe with NATO and UN Peacekeeping missions. David was a proud father and grandfather, “Poppa” to Avery, an avid angler and passionate about veterans issues, with a particular focus on PTSD.
David will lay in the Military Hall of Colours at the National Military Cemetery at Beechwood for a private family vigil. A funeral will be scheduled in the spring, timing to be announced. For those who wish, memorial contributions to Élisabeth Bruyère Hospital or the PTSD Association of Canada are appreciated. David’s family would like to thank the staff at Élisabeth Bruyère Hospital for their unwavering care and compassion.
Digital Guestbook
Ron Mt. Pleasant
Sherry Duplessis
I send hugs, love & strength to his family. I lived when we'd meet up at a parade or Billings Bridge & have a coffee. He was a nice man & good friend. I'd really like to be at his funeral when it is held.❤
JoAnne Gilliland Power
Im at a loss for words. Im so sorry that I wont have David in my life ...we worked together often in our advocacy world..we spoke together often in our personal world. Each time I was in hospital..David was there to visit. Such an amazing Brother and friend. I am so going to miss him..I already do. My sincerest condolences to all.
Keith Power
I am very sorry to learn that my friend and Brother has left us. My sincere condolences to all.
Simon Family
Thank You for your service Sir!
Our heartfelt condolences to your Family Friends and Comrades.
From one Military Family to another!
Jeffrey Hiscock
Dave your struggle is over so you can stand down. On behalf of the ones left behind to carry the torch, we will try to fill your shoes. Thank you for your dedication and service. It was a honour to serve with you at 1 CSR. MY CONDOLENCES TO YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS
Jeff
Bonnie Stevenson
To Dave's family my condolences. The last time I saw him he spoke about having coffee with a homeless man what a compassionate person may he rest in peace. ?
Medric and Jocelyn Cousineau
Our condolences to the family
Zane Sanford
Sorry to hear about my brother Lineman. You will be missed VVV
Stephen Hopkins (Hoppy)
Dave:
I will always remember when you were replacing me in Cyprus. You missed the Herc flight and here I was standing there with a beer waiting... when you did not show, my heart dropped into my stomach. I drank your beer, then you came in on a civil flight.
Well my heart has fallen again but I know you will be there at arrivals upon high. See you at the pole orchard.
To your family, there is nothing I can say that can or could to take the sorrow away! Just a small story in a time in his life and a buddy who will not be forgotten.
Condolences to the family, he will be missed.
RIP Brother VVV