PORTEOUS; David
Our Dad, Poppa, and Great Poppa passed away peacefully May 24th, 2016. Predeceased by Sylvia, his wife of 49 years in 1995 and by partner Leona in February of this year. Survived by 6 children, Lesley, David (Sandra), Valerie, Dale, Tracie and Keith (Autumn), 10 grandchildren & 12 great grandchildren as well as many nieces and nephews. Dad was born in Dumfries, Scotland on December 13, 1925 and was the youngest of 9 children. The family immigrated to Thornloe, Ontario in 1927. Young Dave lied about his age to enter WWll, the Big one, where he valiantly fought the Battle of Montreal. His piercing blue eyes and skill on the tennis court caught the attention of a pretty young brunette. Dad and mom married in Lachine, Quebec in 1946, and started married life in Timmins, Ontario where dad worked in the gold mine. In 1951, with Lesley and David in tow they followed mom鈥檚 parents Jack & Lucy to BC. The family settled in North Surrey with their ever growing family and then moved to North Delta in 1961. During this time Dad obtained work as a street car operator and drove them until they gave way to modern buses. He transferred to BC Electric Railway, ending his career in 1986 as a BC Hydro locomotive engineer. Retirement became him. He was able to perfect his golf swing and enjoy many vacations to Maui. He loved to laugh, loved instigating pranks and in general liked to "stir the pot". It was always a game to see who could get the last laugh. He was a family man first and foremost and put his children before anything else. He was proud of all his beloved grand and great grandchildren. Dad was a good neighbour, a good friend and an active member of the Willow Park Estates community; famous for his red roses he was ever ready to lend a hand. No words could adequately express the loss we feel. We wanted him with us forever. He was one of the best. Our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Mary Borg for the many years of wonderful care she gave Mom and Dad. In lieu of flowers, donations to Dad's favourite charity, BC Children鈥檚 Hospital would be appreciated. A service of remembrance will be held at 2pm Friday, June 3, 2016. Valley View Funeral Home 14660 72 Ave, Surrey BC, V3S 2E7. For online condolences please visit www.valleyviewsurrey.ca