David Phillips
November 20, 2024
November 20, 2024
November 20, 2024
DAVE M. PHILLIPS
December 1960 to November 20th, 2024
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dave after a lengthy and determined fight with cancer.
Dave was a loving and devoted husband to Debby and a proud "bonus dad" to Jessica (Jason) and Taylor. He was a kind and generous brother-in-law to Pamela (Darren) and a caring uncle to Kelsey, Thomas and Jackson. Dave was greatly respected and admired by Debby and Pamela’s dad, Gerry Smith (deceased).
Dave was the loyal and beloved son of William "Bud" Phillips and Kay Phillips (deceased). Sister Deborah Phillips (Thomas Froese) and niece and nephews Hailey, Aidan (Janessa) and Nick will miss his unwavering love and unmatched wit.
In addition to his immediate family, Dave will be greatly missed by the Phillips and Edwards families from Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Ottawa and Topeka, Kansas as well as his large circle of friends and colleagues.
Born in Ontario, Dave and his family moved multiple times during his childhood before settling in Vancouver where he graduated from Prince of Wales - Class of 1978 - where he was fondly known as “Disco” Dave for his love of dancing.
An avid sports enthusiast, Dave enjoyed playing hockey, football, rugby, volleyball, softball and cycling throughout his life.
Dave worked for Air Canada as a Lead on the ramp for 17 years. He was an active member of the IAM Union and, most proudly, a founding and valuable member of the Air Canada Flying Pirates Hockey Club that travelled the world playing hockey tournaments and friendly games.
In August 1995, Dave became a firefighter and served the City of New Westminster for 25 years. During this time, he was in various positions within the union and he was an active participant in various volunteer programs including the Special Olympics and the Charitable Society. Dave was promoted to Training Captain in 2014 and was known for enjoying a challenge and demonstrating a strong work ethic.
Fondly known as "Super Dave" by friends and colleagues, he was celebrated for his loyalty, resourcefulness, generosity and bravery. His big-hearted nature and willingness to help others without seeking personal gain left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Dave’s family extend their heartfelt gratitude to all who have expressed their condolences during this difficult time.
A Line of Duty Death service will be held on Wednesday, December 18th, 2024 at 1:00 pm at the Anvil Centre, 777 Columbia Street, New Westminster. All are welcome to attend as we honour and celebrate Dave’s remarkable life.
There will be a Memorial Live stream through the BC Professional Firefighters which is being held Dec 18th starting at 12:50pm.
You are invited to leave a personal message for the family.
Impossible for me to find the words to express just how sorry I am that you all had to say goodbye to such a wonderful man. Dave really was one in a million. He will be remembered with great fondness by everyone who knew him. He was a true hero. ~ Kathleen Fox
I graduated from Prince of Wales with Disco Dave. He was a wonderful person and tons of fun. So sorry to hear of his death. My sympathies to his family. Rest In Peace DD.
~ Gord Love
We only had the pleasure of meeting Dave earlier this year but felt like we already knew him through Deb, Pam and Darren. He was a brave man who spread love and kindness where he went. We feel your pain and sadness at losing such a wonderful man xx
sending our love
~ Leanne & Ken Smith
I had the utmost privilege of being a friend of Supers for 32 years. He was the most unselfish, stand-up down to earth person I have ever known. I loved Dave as a person and having him for my friend, the world lost a very good one I will miss him greatly, I hope there is a Princess auto in Heaven. RIP my friend.
Rob McGregor
~ Robert McGregor
My deepest condolences to the family and loved ones. I was absolutely shocked to learn about his passing. A true gem who had the kindest heart. Gone to soon but Rest in Eternal Peace Dave.
~ Zarina Jiwani