David Wilfred Craven

David was born March 3, 1935 to Thomas and Mabel Craven of North Branch, ON, the fourth child in a family of eight. Davie spent his childhood in the home of his loving foster family, the Jerry’s, who he maintained special relationships with for his entire life. He also remained close with father Thomas, sisters Irene and Marlene, and brother Roy. On July 12, 1969 he married the love of his life, Melba Turney of Thunder Bay, ON.

There were so many things that made David a special person. David had an incredible ability to remember names and occasions, making him the families “go to” when it came to recalling important events. He delighted in bringing joy into the lives of those around him, and so he was always ready with a joke or a story.

Nothing was more important than family to David, and he loved his family greatly. Those feelings were reciprocated by his family who will forever be blessed by his legacy of love. David was a special man who never judged or criticized instead he would simply say “we have to love them and pray for them.”

David and Melba had no children, but their many nieces and nephews were loved and cherished just as if they had been their own. David was ever present at their concerts, hockey games, graduations and more, sometimes traveling across the country just to be there for special occasions. David was also a cherished figure in the lives of extended family her and across the country.

David spent most of his working career with the Town of Fort Frances, retiring after 43 years of service. David was proud of his career and was known to tour family around town, showing them projects that he had completed.

The ease with which David then settled into retirement is a testament to his ability to find joy in every situation. David delighted in many activities in his senior years including bowling, travel and being with his church family. He was always ready for a coffee at McDonalds or wherever a pot happened to be brewing. David made many cherished connections over his daily cup of coffee with his upbeat personality, ready smile and hugs/handshakes, drawing in new and old friends alike.

David, your love is forever imprinted on all our hearts.

David was predeceased by his brother Roy (Ezra) Craven and now leaves behind his wife Melba, sisters Irene (Craven) Redford and Marlene (Craven) Fedan, and many friends and family members across Canada.

A very special thank you to the staff of Rainycrest, who showed such wonderful compassion and care to David.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2020 at 1 p.m. at the Evangelical Fellowship Church, 605 McIrvine Road with Pastor Alain Reiner officiating.