Obituary of David Philip Rose

David passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on October 10th, 2025, after a brief illness. Dad had a beautiful send off surrounded by tears, love and laughter.

David leaves behind his loving wife Mary; his brothers Howard (Pattie), Jim (Dawn deceased); his sisters Joyce (Don deceased), Joan, Debbie (Bob), Carolyn (Bill), Cynthia (Mark); his children David (Leah), Brian, Jessica (Paul), Candace, Lindsey, Raquel (Collin), Chelsea (Damian), Kayla (deceased); his grandchildren Isabelle, Lucas, Austin, Vito, Paul Jr., Carter, Louis, Gia; and numerous relatives. Predeceased by his parents Ethel and Howard Rose, stepmom Marion (Paul), his sister Marie and his daughter Kayla.

Dad was born in Cornwall Ontario and grew up on a dairy farm. He was a member of the 4-H Club. His family said there was no can’t do on the farm. Dad cherished his time working at his father’s lumber mill. He loved his brothers and sisters dearly and they remained close even until his last breath. Dad grew up on the banks of Newfoundland. The Atlantic Ocean was always close to his heart. His last years were spent beside the river where he found serenity. Dad was like a river – always flowing despite all of the obstacles.

Dad worked as a heavy machine operator and mechanic. Dad worked very hard his whole life and was happiest in a heavy machine especially his 892 E LC excavator. Dad successfully owned and operated Dave’s Excavating for 30 years. Dad saw beauty in things where others might not. He had a way of restoring things back to life. Dad repaired a Liebherr Excavator that sat in a scrap yard in a field for 5 years. The tracks were completely buried in the mud. No one could get it running. Dad's persistence paid off as he fired it up and everyone was in awe. It was a proud moment for Dad who showcased his exceptional mechanical skills. Dad always said to Never Give Up!

A wild Rose, Dad lived his way. He liked country music and a cold beer after a hard day’s work. He was thoroughbred country boy who loved all things rodeo. Dad was a tough man who had a heart of gold. Dad was a selfless man who was very generous. He had big shoulders who did not hesitate to help anyone. Dad was a man of few words. He took great joy watching his children and grandchildren all together. His greatest contributions are the ones he left behind – his family. Dad taught his kids to be proud and have strong work ethics. He believed in working hard and child labour, long before it was frowned upon. Dad had a great sense of humour and his laughter and jokes will be missed, he was so infectious. He had a lot of funny sayings and nicknames for the kids. Dad liked to say that the Bear walks alone but this time Dad your cubs are always with you.

Mary and Dad met and she brought so much happiness into his life. Her charismatic personality and sense of humour made it easy to love her. Mary took such great care of Dad he was comforted by her unwavering love for him.

Although our hearts are broken we take comfort in knowing Dad has been reunited with his Mom, Dad, Marie and Kayla.

Whenever we hear the rumble of a diesel and smell of the exhaust we will always be reminded of you. Dad and his 892 Excavator have pulled into the shop and the engine is off but his light and love will always remain. Lord Thundering Jesus, C’ya on the other side B’y. We are going to miss you big guy, We love you so much.

In keeping with David's wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no service. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.