John David Walsh

WALSH, John DAVID - The curtain has fallen on a life most extraordinary. On Thursday, July 16, 2020, Dave left us to join his beloved wife of 53 years, Gail Walsh. Cherished father of Laura Walsh Ouellette and Lesley Walsh Tibben (Eric). Proud Grandpa Silly of Christopher "KO" Ouellette, Lyric and Aidan Tibben. Predeceased by his parents Michael and Gertrude Walsh. Dear brother of Fred Walsh (Jenny) and predeceased by his siblings Marion Carr, Martin "Bud" Walsh, Marie Yorfido and Jim Walsh. Brother-in-law of Beth Farr (Lanny) and Joy Climenhage (late Allan). Special uncle and great uncle of many nieces and nephews.

A graduate of University of Western Ontario, Dave and Gail began their lives in 1959 in Sault Ste. Marie. Dave accepted a teaching position at Lakeway (Tech) teaching history, social studies, coaching gymnastics and teaching driver's education. He taught for the Algoma District School Board for 33 years, retiring in 1992 after a five year stint at Bawating High School. Dave was a teacher with a vast knowledge and an accessibility to his students that was greatly appreciated.

Dave is a familiar face in the City of Sault Ste. Marie. He had a passion for theatre that just wouldn't quit. He was a lifetime member of the Musical Comedy Guild. He also worked with Sault Theatre Workshop, the Sault Opera Society, Soo Theatre Project in Michigan, and the Maycourt Society Black Stocking Reviews. One of his proudest moments was receiving the award for Best Supporting Actor at Quanta for his role in Applause. He was also thrilled to share the stage with three generations of family in The Wizard of Oz (MCG) and Annie (MCG). His love for performing didn't end there - he is a founding member of the Northland Barbershop Chorus and sang weekly with the choir of Westminster Presbyterian Church.

Dave was honoured to be a part of the Ambassador Corps for the Chamber of Commerce. He enjoyed the opportunity to represent Sault Ste. Marie and all it had to offer. He has been a guide for various tourism companies for the past 15 years doing walk-on bus and hiking tours to showcase the history of Sault Ste. Marie and the beauty of the surrounding area. In his spare time, he volunteered with school breakfast programs and church services in retirement centres.

We would like to thank Dr. Wilson for her unwavering support and the Bayshore nurses Dawn, Susie, Amy, Talia and Jeanette for giving us strength. Cancer is horrible.

Friends are invited to visit at Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. E. 705-759-2522) on Monday, July 20, 2020 from 6 pm to 9 pm. Please call Arthur Funeral Home to book an appointed time as capacity is limited due to COVID-19 restrictions. A private funeral service will be held in the chapel on Tuesday, July 21, 2020 with Reverends John and Charlene Wilson officiating. Friends are invited to view the service online starting at 3 pm and can be viewed anytime up to 90 days. Go to www.funeraweb.tv and select David's name to view the service. Memorial contributions to ARCH, the ADSB Breakfast Program or a charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated. Please visit Arthur Funeral Home website obituaries to leave a message of condolence as a keepsake for David's family.