DAVID BOLAND

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DAVID BOLAND

David Boland passed away peacefully, with Patsy by his side on October 13, 2026. He was pre-deceased by his parents (Richard and Sophia), sister Elsa, brother-in-law Steve, father-in-law and mother-in-law (Peter and Mary).

David leaves to cherish his beloved wife, Patsy and his children Jeff (Tammy), Pamela, Nathan and his grandchild Zach (Alicia). He will be fondly remembered by family and friends: Dennis, Brenda, Debbie, Robert, Denise, Mary Anne, Kevin, Zhinous, Keon, Kaelyn, Kelden, Hannah and Granny.

David was born on June 4, 1949, and grew up in St. Boniface – enjoying time in Winnipeg and on family farms in surrounding, rural communities. David played high school football and spoke fondly of the friendships he made, both on and off the field. He graduated high school from Nelson McIntyre. As a young adult, David worked hard to raise a young family. His life’s work and proudest moments are best exemplified in those, who follow in his footsteps.

David and Patsy found happiness and companionship with each other. More commonly known as Dave - he lived life to the fullest. His creativity and woodworking skills came shining through, in the building of Cottage Country Crafts. He worked alongside, Patsy and trusted employees in the big shop, at Max Painting & Blasting. When they were not busy working – you could find Dave and Patsy in the stands at Blue Bomber games, watching grandsons and nephews play hockey in arenas across southeastern Manitoba, and curling in Ste. Anne.

They did not leave the home and business very often, but when they did Dave and Pat made the most of it. Travel offered Dave and Pat another wonderful way to spend time together. Their journeys across Canada brought them treasured moments with family, including time spent with Jeff and his family in Powell River, where special memories were made and shared. One of Dave’s proudest moments was travelling to Montreal to attend Zach’s graduation ceremony, celebrating his grandson’s successful completion of basic military training. It was a milestone that filled Dave with pride and happiness. For Pat, the sights, sounds, and spirit of Canada’s East Coast will forever hold a special place in her heart, recalling the holidays and adventures she shared with Dave. These travels were more than destinations on a map; they were chapters in a life together, filled with love, discovery, family, and memories that will be cherished for years to come.

David was often seen feeding herds of deer and flocks of birds in their backyard with Charlie, a faithful black lab by his side. Bud and Fluffy (two cats) were constants in Dave’s life, bringing him much joy – morning, noon and night. Christmas was a favourite holiday at Dave and Pat’s. In the weeks leading up to family dinners on Christmas Eve, Dave was setting up outdoor displays, climbing ladders, and hanging thousands of lights: creating a magical world in the true spirit of Christmas. People came from near and far away, to walk through the winter wonderland. Over the years, in between successes and shortfalls some of Dave’s greatest struggles were health related. He rallied time and time again, to recover from illness and accidents. His tenacity and persistence gave new meaning to the saying, “When life gives you lemons make lemonade.” In the last few months, Dave knew that his body was failing. The family wishes to share their sincere appreciation to Dr. Lanouette, the nurses and staff at Ste. Anne Hospital – for their kindness and care.

Dave’s life was built on the things that matter most. He found happiness in the everyday moments, took pride in what he created with his own hands, and gave his love through the many ways he showed up for the people around him. Whether gathered around the Christmas table, cheering from the hockey stands, sharing a laugh, or enjoying the company of the animals he so dearly loved, Dave made memories that will live on. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy lives on through Pat, his children and grandson, family and friends. May the memories of a life well lived bring comfort, peace, and a smile to all who loved him.

Rest peacefully, Dave.

A Celebration of Life will be held on the west coast, where close family and friends will gather to honour Dave’s memory. 

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 17, 2026