Nécrologie de David Ayearst
December 18th, 1946 – August 7th, 2017
It is with great sadness that the family of David Michael Ayearst announces his death on August 7th, 2017 at Green Lake, Shawville, Quebec. Beloved husband to Sheila, proud father of McLean (Lindsey), baby Harley (gone but never forgotten), and Julia (Carl), and doting Pa to Theodore.
He is predeceased by his father Bruce, mother Muriel, and brothers John and Morley. He is missed by his younger brother James (Betty), best friend Bill (Laura), mother-in-law Lorene, brother-in-law Leslie (Maureen), and sisters-in-law Doreine and Jennifer.
Dave was born in Ottawa but grew up on a farm in Quyon, Quebec. His childhood was spent outdoors where he, his brothers, and his friends Bobby and Lou Stafford ran wild and got into lots of trouble. His mother was often confused when asked by concerned neighbours if there’d been an emergency as they had seen her car racing down the road in the middle of the night. It was likely on those joyrides that a lifelong love of music, motorcycles, mischief, and cars was born.
It was at Shawville High School that Dave met the love of his life, Sheila McLean. They spent their early adulthood travelling and having great adventures with their friends. Highlights include: motorcycle trips across the country, pioneering converted loft living, and living on a boat off Vancouver Island. They resettled in Toronto in 1983. Their son Michael McLean was born in 1984, their daughter Harley Anna was born and died in 1987, and their daughter Julia Jane was born in 1988. His adoration of his children was made clear to all he met and was not lost on them. He considered himself an honourary father to his best friends’ children Katie, Ellen, Morgan, and Taylor.
A great sense of humour, storytelling and tremendous kindness were Dave’s trademarks. He loved people and loved to talk and joke with everyone. He was the kind of person to offer the right thing to say in a time such as this. He will be missed terribly by his many friends and family.
Dave was an extremely warm hearted individual who made those around him feel welcome and accepted. As a lifelong lover of “putzing” Dave was often at work while others rested: it is hard to believe that he isn’t simply out in the garage taking something apart.
Cremation has taken place. A gathering to celebrate his life will be held at Gavan’s Hotel in Quyon on Saturday August 12th, 2017 from 2pm to 4pm. All are welcome. Another gathering for his friends in Toronto will be held in the near future.