On Friday, February 24, 2023, Donald David Graham, 65, from Judique, lovingly known as “Gypsy” by family and friends, was suddenly, and much too soon taken from this world. Left to mourn this great loss is his best friend, and the love of his life, Donna (nee Boutlier) and their two sons, Jesse and Keaton (Suzanna). He also leaves behind and will be greatly missed by family members, Tommy (Debby), Allan (Vi), Nancy (Sam), Norma, Nora, and Kenny (Shauna); along with many nieces, nephews and cousins. Also, he is remembered by in-laws, Eleanor Brucks (mother-in-law); sister- in- laws, Patricia Boutlier and Jeanette Head; and brother- in- laws, Wayne and Donald Boutlier. David was predeceased by his parents, Kaddie and Vincent Graham; infant brother, Colin; and step father-in-law, Don Brucks.
David had a great appetite for life. Always ready with a quick wave, a dose of humor, and a good story, he could brighten the dullest of days for anyone who met him. David spent many years out west, working in the pipe trades and raising his family. He was a huge sports enthusiast and was highly involved in his son’s sports pursuits and other interests and never missed an opportunity to cheer on his beloved Maple Leafs. When he retired, he returned to his homestead in Judique, and lived life to the fullest. You could often see him and Donna walking along Route 19 together heading for Christie’s Look Off or tending their firepit on warm summer evenings while never missing an opportunity to wave to passersby or welcoming them to drop in for a visit. David and Donna also loved spending a nice hot summer’s day at Baxter’s Cove, soaking in the sun and enjoying beach life. They also liked going to the horse races with brother Tommy. When David and Tommy golfed together, Tommy did not miss an opportunity to tease and remind David that he did not have to collect every single golf ball in the woods. David also enjoyed taking back road trips while eating egg salad sandwiches and drinking tea with his brother Allan. In every way he was a beloved husband, father, brother and friend with a work ethic and personality like no other. Being such a great “people person” in recent months he decided to pursue a new career and join the Home Hardware family in Port Hood. This pursuit quickly became a passion project for him, as he greeted each customer with his infectious smile, and warmly asked “How you doin’?” David always went the extra mile keeping the warehouse in top notch shape, while attending to customers in a quick and efficient way. He also gained a reputation for his penchant for neatness, as he even swept the parking lot while waving to everyone who honked and waved as they passed by. To say that he will be missed is an understatement. There was so much more that David wanted to do- including holding his new little grandchild due in April. He was a model for each of us to live life fully and to remember words from one of his favorite songs “Life is good today”. There will be a Funeral Mass for David at 11:00 am in St. Andrew’s Church, Judique, on Saturday, March 4th with Father Allan MacMillan officiating. A tea will follow in the Judique Community Centre. All are welcomed to attend.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Heart and Stroke Foundation or a charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be made to: www.invernessfuneralhome.com
