David Philip Atkinson
May 2, 1952 - December 14, 2024
Funeral Details: Details will be shared at a later date for a celebration in the early spring.
It is with great sadness, we share the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend David Philip Atkinson. Dave left us unexpectedly on December 14, 2024 at 72 years of age.
Dave was the devoted husband of Debbie, his cherished partner for 53 wonderful years. Together, they built a family filled with love and warmth, Steve Atkinson (Monika), Jackie Sublett (Duncan), Carrie Davis (Jason), and Steve Morrison. Dave’s greatest joy was his role as a proud grandfather to Kyle (Mikaela), Bailey, Austin, Oriana, Grace, Carleigh, and Charlotte. He also leaves behind his loving sister, Kathy Rafferty (Ed), and many friends.
Dave’s career began at Dominion Dairies, where he developed a passion for innovation and excellence. Among his proudest achievements was introducing Haagen-Dazs to Canada and securing a design patent for the freezers during his time at Nestle. Dave concluded his professional journey at Sleep Country Canada. In retirement, his time was dedicated to volunteering with Routes Connecting Communities Georgina, serving as a driver and participant in the Friendly Call Programs. Dave also helped and supported Community Living Georgina. His generosity and compassion were hallmarks of his character.
Outside of work and volunteering, Dave enjoyed playing poker with his friends on Thursdays and Sundays, a time that always brought a smile to his face.
Dave’s loss is deeply felt, not just by his family, but by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to his family and community. An amazing person with a kind and generous soul, always ready to lend a hand to anyone who needed it. He taught us many lessons that we will carry with us forever. In the words of his grandson Kyle: "A true legend..."
A celebration of Dave’s life will be held in early spring. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Community Living Georgina or Routes Connecting Communities Georgina, two organizations close to Dave’s heart.
Memories and messages of condolence may be left below.
Peaceful Transition York
Darla olhiser
Posted on: Monday, December 23, 2024” I’m so proud of you and all the things you’ve overcome”
Those words will stay in my head forever and also the serenity prayer, Dave became a second dad to me I knew him for 5 yrs and he was the light when I was in the dark, he knew when I was feeling down he knew what advice to give. I’m forever thankful for him and his family there’s not enough words to express my feelings. He was a great man who taught me many things and definitely to budget and make my goals, as tears flow I think of all the good times and I’ll always remember him.
Al Russell
Posted on: Saturday, December 28, 2024Dear Debbie and family. I am so sorry to hear this. I enjoyed my time working with Dave in Toronto and I know my Dad, Les, enjoyed working with Dave in Sudbury. My sincere condolences to the entire Atkinson family.
Al Russell
Jim Crawford
Posted on: Monday, December 30, 2024Debbie, Steve and family, we were so sorry to hear of the sudden passing of Dave on December 14, 2024.
My wife, Debbie and I, knew Dave and Debbie as their children, Steve, Jackie, and Carrie were the best of friends with our children, James and Jackie. We knew Dave to be a loving husband and father, and great provider for his family.
After the family moved to Vaughan from Burlington, I would, on occasion, bump into and meet up with Dave over coffee at Pearson Airport when Dave was travelling on business. Catching up and speaking of family and the children, were the topic of conversation always.
Dave had a great sense of humour and will be missed terribly by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Jim and Debbie Crawford.
Murlene and Sean Quinn
Posted on: Thursday, January 2, 2025We are so very sad to hear of the news about Dave. Dave was wonderful, kind and caring – his loss will be felt by many. Our sincere condolences to Debbie and the entire family.