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DAVID BISSELL
Born: Oct 26, 1961
Date of Passing: Aug 01, 2026
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryDAVID BISSELL
It is with deep sadness for a life so beautifully lived that we announce the passing of David Michael Bissell of Winnipeg, Manitoba, on August 1, 2026, at the age of 64.
He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 42 years, Esther; his son, Joshua and daughter-in-law, Julia. His sisters Brenda (George), Linda (Robert), Catherine, and Carolyn. And many extended family and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Ray and Marina Bissell.
David loved his family and always tried to be there for them, helping with graciousness.
David worked as the Director of Facilities and Maintenance at Mennonite Brethren Collegiate Institute for 39 years. Walking through the halls of the campus, it is impossible not to see something David built, created or fixed. His fingerprints have touched every inch of the sprawling campus, as he saw the campus grow in his lifetime, with expansion after expansion, all of which he helped guide and support.
As a master carpenter, his pristine craftsmanship has adorned countless houses and cottages in Manitoba.
As a child, David developed a love for horses. Spending summers in stables caring for them. Throughout his life he always knew where to find the horses, and that's where you could find David.
He cherished simple pleasures in life. Beyond woodworking projects in his garage workshop, he loved to be in nature. Family trips to the mountains and wilderness were the norm.
Summer family vacations to Canmore became some of his favourite times. This past year on August 9, 2025, with his family, David hiked up the Middle Sister Trail Summit. A 24km hike that took him up 1500 meters of elevation gain to see the serene panoramic view of Canmore and surrounding area. The 15 hour trek was well worth it, as he fondly held the adventure in his heart.
His relationship with God was the foundation on which he built his life. He embodied what it meant to be a "good and faithful servant". David showed dependency on God until the end, never wavering in the face of many difficult health problems.
David will be loved and missed. He left a mark on everyone he interacted with. An amazing husband, father, brother, uncle, cousin. An amazing man.
Celebration of Life will be held on October 3, 2026, 11:00 a.m. at the Church of the Rock 1397 Buffalo Place Winnipeg, Manitoba. In lieu of flowers, donation may be made in David's memory to MBCI RED GYM PROJECT.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 12, 2026
Condolences & Memories (5 entries)
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Esther, Joshua, Julia and Family. It seems like a dream. We are still waiting for David to walk down the driveway. To stop and talk with us. Our deepest heartfelt sympathy, of your loss, to you and your family. Healing will take an eternity. Esther, remember we are always here for you. Friends are Forever. Especially in time of need. Godspeed to you and yours. Ed and Christine - Posted by: Ed and Christine (Neighbor) on: Sep 30, 2026
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Esther and Josh, My heart breaks for you both over the loss of David. While I worked with both David and Esther at MBCI, you both shared incredible care and compassion as I dealt with the passing of my own husband. Esther, my daughters both remember Mr. Bissell fondly and wish to give you hugs like you would hug them both. I pray you feel God’s peace as you travel through these days. Shawna (McDowell) - Posted by: Shawna Doerksen (Former colleague) on: Sep 19, 2026
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I will forever see Uncle David through the eyes of my childhood heart. Since the day I was born he was larger than life and a hero to all of his nieces and nephews. We looked up to him; he was so cool with his long hair and big pickup trucks, and he could build anything. He had such a presence; everyone loved him. He was the epitome of strength with such a gentle spirit. He was hilarious and everyone was constantly cracking up at his jokes; his laugh was the best sound ever. He had the patience of a saint; I once troubled him and his loving and incredibly kind wife, Aunty Esther, for fourteen hours straight on a road trip. He always made time for his family. He adored Joshua and was the blueprint for a loving father. His heart was gold. He was gold. The lighthouse of our family has gone dark. If there is ever a reason to want to make it to heaven, it would be to see him again. Uncle David is past the glass, Fully knowing and fully known, Reunited with Papa and Grandma, In a new body; laugh at full volume. - Posted by: Amy (Family) on: Sep 18, 2026
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To Mrs. Bissell and family, I'm deeply sorry to hear of your loss and Mr. Bissell's passing. He will be greatly missed! He was a kind man and his light will be missed in those halls but his legacy there will live on in the students and building, be sure of that. I hold all of you in my heart and will be praying for peace in this difficult time. My sincerest sympathy and condolences. - Posted by: Former Student (MBCI) on: Sep 15, 2026
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Dear Esther and Family; I was sad to read of David's death. Gone much too soon. I carry fond memories of David's service to students and community during my time at MBCI. I will be thinking of you as you gather as a family to mourn your loss and celebrate David's life. - Ted Fransen, Guelph, ON - Posted by: Ted Fransen (former colleague) on: Sep 12, 2026