DAVID CHALMER REECE

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

DAVID CHALMER REECE On January 12, 2011, peacefully in his sleep due to complications from Alzheimer's. Veteran, diplomat and author, David was predeceased by his parents, Rupert and Gwendolyn (nee Marples), and his brother Michael, killed in action in 1942. Treasured husband of Nina (nee Stone) for 53 years; and loving father to Katherine, Michael and Caroline (Edward Liptay). Grandfather to Henry, Teddy, Rebecca and Samuel Liptay, and James and Ellie Reece Thomas. Born in Winnipeg in 1926, David was a graduate of Ravenscourt School and Cambridge University after which he was called to the Bar in London, England. He saw active duty in the Royal Canadian Navy in the Second World War, and continued to serve his country in the course of a 38 year career in the Canadian diplomatic corps. A protégé of Escott Reid and Arthur Menzies, David's postings spanned four continents and included five appointments as ambassador. Author and editor of several books on Canadian foreign policy, David's legacy is a lifetime of commitment to Canada and devotion to his family. David and Nina retired to the countryside outside Kingston, where they spent some of the happiest years of their life together. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held later this year in Wilton, Ontario. Donations in David's memory can be made to the Canadian Alzheimer Society.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 15, 2011