David Roy Keele

It is with profound sadness that we announce the death of David (Dave) Roy Keele, who passed away in Calgary, Alberta on January 19, 2023.
 

David was born in Croydon, Surrey, England during World War II to Gwen (Harms Keele) Zradicka and Dave Keele. His Mom brought him to Canada in 1944 when he was less than a year old on a ship filled with other War Brides and German prisoners to settle with his Dad’s family in Saskatchewan while his Dad stayed behind to serve out the remainder of the war in the No. 1 Provost Corps. He grew up on the Prairies, eventually settling in Calgary, Alberta where he raised his family.

David was predeceased by his mother, Gwen Zradicka, his father, Dave Keele, and many aunts and uncles. He leaves to mourn his cherished daughter, Lindsay Keele (Mike), and their children, Jane and Joshua; his beloved son, Jarrett Keele (Caroline), and their children,
Harrison, Charlotte, and Maxwell; as well as a daughter from his first marriage, Lisa Clark, and her children. He also leaves a much-loved sister, Shelley Harynuk (Jack) and family; and a recently discovered sister, Deirdre Hetherington (Gary) and family.

Dave coached his kids in many sports, attended every activity, took them water skiing, skiing, fishing, and taught them all kinds of smart tricks and shortcuts to help get them through the ins and outs of life. He was the guy you would call if you couldn't remember the author of that book or the star of that movie, all of this long before Google. He was full of dad jokes, repeating them over and over through the years. He was outspoken about his beliefs and was unafraid to voice his opinions, having written countless “Letters to the Editor” of the Calgary Herald.

Dave was the friend and father who always picked up the phone with time for a chat (unless he was driving). He was five minutes early for everything. David was always ready to listen and offer advice when anyone was in need. He was incredibly generous and loved to offer help and support to those around him. He was a gentle giant of a man who, even through his last days in the hospital, was stoic in his pain and discomfort, and kind to those around him. We always knew how much he loved us and will miss him every day for the rest of our lives.

David will be missed by his friends and colleagues from his years at Telus as well as his years doing legal work.

We want to thank Dave’s close friend Tom Martin for all the friendship and support he provided over time. Tom was with Dave in his last hours, and we know this meant the world to him.

The family would like to thank the medical staff at Rockyview Hospital for their professionalism and kindness during David’s time under their care.