Tri-City Cremation Services - Kitchener 519-772-1237 Cambridge 519-267-7199
  • Home
  • About
  • Cremation
  • Burial
  • Preplanning
  • Grief Resources
  • Obituaries & Condolences
  • Contact

​

David Andrew Gaskin

2/18/2023

34 Comments

 
Picture
Announcing the passing of David Andrew Gaskin, born November 24th, 1959 in Moncton, NB.  David passed away peacefully on February 18th, 2023, in Oshawa, ON following a short battle with kidney cancer. He is survived by his children, Vinton, Ella, Kiara, his siblings Cheryl and Mark, and his parents, Reginald and Doreen.

David grew up in Moncton, NB with his siblings and parents. They often frequented their grandfather’s farm, which is still in the family today. In 1971 they moved to Ontario for his father’s work, to the same house where his parents resided until 2019.

He worked delivering flowers in high school and later spent years working for Scarboro Movers Ltd where he met the godparents of his children, JP and Nella Dunn. He graduated from the University of Toronto with a degree in English, and later returned to school to begin his career in fleet safety and insurance. He played football throughout High School and University.  David   later started playing hockey as well.  He worked for a few different companies throughout his career, but eventually founded Sirius Fleet Safety Ltd in 2019, an independent contracting company focused on truck and fleet safety, as well as insurance risk management. He had 35 years of fleet safety management and was incredibly passionate about his field.

Dave met his future wife, Sheryl, in 1981 at Melville Presbyterian Church. On October 15th, 1983, they had their first date, and married on the same day in 1988. They honeymooned in Niagara Falls, and in 1994 took a road trip through the West Coast of Canada and the United States. They moved a few times but ended up in New Brunswick, where they welcomed their first child, Vinton, in 1997. In 2000 they moved to Oshawa before they welcomed Ella, then had Kiara in 2002. Though they separated in 2015, David and Sheryl hold their memories very close to their heart and cherish all the years they had together.

David was passionate about many things. He was a die-hard hockey fan, specifically the Toronto Maple Leafs. He watched Hockey, football, basketball, and shared that love with his eldest, Vinton, and they often bonded over athletics through Vinton’s sports as well. He played hockey, football, baseball and more. David and Sheryl even did Karate lessons for years, gaining his brown belt in Wadō-kai Karate.

David was an avid reader, as most English majors are. Some notable favourite authors include Stephen King, Tom Clancy, Joe Hill and Dean Koontz. He loved crime novels, the supernatural horror, and historical novels, among other genres. He would often spend his time writing novels or telling those around him about ideas he had for books.

Potentially David’s biggest passion was music. He grew up often secluding to his room, listening to music and playing guitar, but would share his love for music with others. He was part of the Presbyterian Centennial Choir in his youth. David also wrote music, many songs inspired by those in his life.  After moving to Oshawa in 2000, he became a member of worship band Spirit Dot Calm, posted his music on his YouTube channel, and entered a variety of local music competitions. You would rarely catch him at family events without his guitar and playing some tunes.

He lit up every room with cheeky humour and dad jokes, while also being an introvert who loved his time alone. He would never take life too seriously and put his family and kids over anything else. He loved being on the road and often travelled for work. He loved talking about and sharing his interests with others, and everyone loved hearing about them. He was a loved man whose kindness did not go unnoticed. Words cannot describe how much he will be missed. 

Memorial information is still to be determined and will be shared at a later date.

We know you're flying high in the sky, 747. 

Messages and condolences may be left for the family at www.tricitycremations.com. Please visit David's obituary notice on Facebook.
34 Comments
Stephanie & Mark Vrkljan
2/22/2023 02:07:33 pm

Our deepest condolences to David’s family for the loss of this beautiful man. I met David in a hockey rink in Oshawa, Ontario with our sons on a team together. I said him, you know… my brothers’ name is David Gaskin!, and after a quick review of our family trees we discovered we were distant cousins, sharing a great-grandfather. Through the years I had the pleasure of chatting and getting to know David and discovered how incredibly brilliant and interesting he was. I feel so blessed that fate brought me to him and I was able to get to know my cousin and his family. I am so saddened by his passing. I know this world was a better place because of him. He was a wonderful son, an amazing father and a lovely friend to have. His children are such a beautiful reflection of the kind and wonderful man he was. He will be in our hearts forever.

Reply
Ella Gaskin
2/23/2023 01:51:43 pm

Thank you so much for your kind words. Please stay in touch xx

Reply
Caroline
2/22/2023 02:42:03 pm

I am so sorry on your loss of a dad, brother, son, husband and friend. I have known Dave for around 41 years and enjoy many fun memories over the years. Big hugs and heartfelt condolences to you all xox

Reply
Chuck Johnston
2/22/2023 04:29:12 pm

Met Dave working at Scarboro Movers when he was attending University Of Toronto. Very bright , hard working guy. Was a pleasure meeting Dave. Wonderful man.

Reply
Melissa S.
2/22/2023 08:35:28 pm

So very sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences to Sheryl, Vinton, Ella, Kiara, and the rest of David’s family. May God bless you all with peace and healing.

Reply
James (Jim) Fell
2/22/2023 08:47:12 pm

Dave we had many good times working together at Markel, you will be missed by everyone who knew you, RIP Brother

Reply
Sheryl
2/23/2023 10:59:18 pm

Hey Jim! I sent you a msg on Facebook, not sure if you've seen it! I think of you often and would love to hear from you.

Reply
Tanya Poppleton
2/22/2023 08:52:29 pm

My condolences to you all. Met him a few times and he was very kind.

Reply
Laurie Remillard link
2/23/2023 12:09:45 pm

My thoughts, my love to each of you Sheryl, Vinton, Ella, Kiara and to all Dave’s family and friends.
My heart is heavy for you and your loss. I find myself letting the tears flow as all the wonderful memories of how you raised your children. How Dave and Sheryl together you let me, my Son our family share in this. You gave us the most precious gift. Time spent with your most precious gift - Your Son. Although we couldn’t seem to match up our girls gatherings. Nevertheless we shared the joys and journeys of our sports developing Sons, all the sleepovers… all the fun all the laughter. We connected. Thank you Dave. Thank you Sheryl. Thank you Vinton. Thank you Ella. Thank you Kiara. May love surround you through this journey. May your good memories and hard memories remind you in the hardest of days as they come
…you were and are so loved.

Reply
Ella Gaskin
2/23/2023 01:53:53 pm

Thank you Laurie for sharing those kind words. I appreciate your continued love and support

Reply
Liz Cogger Hills
2/23/2023 03:12:29 pm

I know Reg and Doreen through Melville church. I did not know David but feel I know him a little through reading about his abundant life. My deepest sympathies to your family.

Reply
Mathew Goslinski
2/23/2023 03:18:00 pm

I am so sorry to hear of David's passing. You never want to outlive your kids. Reg and Doreen, know that my prayers (and the family's) are with you and David's family during this difficult time.

Reply
Mark and Jayne Christiani
2/23/2023 03:44:40 pm

Reg, Doreen, Cheryl and Mark
Our deepest condolences and our heart go out to you.
He was way too young.
Mark & Jayne

Reply
Cheryl
2/24/2023 06:22:51 am

Thanks, Mark and Jayne. 🙏

Reply
Kevin Jennings
2/24/2023 01:53:23 pm

As I wonder through life I've have suffered greatly with the ability to think. I often questioned the rationale behind some decisions made by people, governments, corporations and myself. Some things make sense, other things don't but I keep learning.
We can put all the pieces in place and we figure it all out as best we can. We make mistakes, we learn some more.
A wise man (person) once said; "your only job as a parent is to give your children the opportunity to be quality adults". Dave & Sheryl, mission accomplished.
Dave was my mentor at Markel. Many conversation contained wisdoms that I now pass along as my own. That's what we do.
Another pearl of wisdom is, "we can't have the joy of life on Earth without the inevitable death". Reality.
I am truly grateful for Dave's contribution to my life, I am a better person for it. I am sad that he left us too early.
My wife Heather and I extend our condolences to friends and family. Please take some comfort in knowing that sadness you feel is shared by many. Peace.

Reply
Cheryl
2/24/2023 06:19:22 pm

Thank you for the kind words.

Reply
Evelyn Cartmill
2/24/2023 03:21:58 pm

I worked with David back in the Markel days and we crossed paths many times in the industry post Markel.
My deepest condolences to his family during this time.

Reply
Bob and Ann Stewart
2/24/2023 05:32:25 pm

Our heartfelt condolences to all of David's family and friends. There will be many special memories of David that will endure but for now the loss is too great to appreciate this legacy. There is an amazing inner strength that David had that is shared by his ancestors, his immediate family and his extended family and friends. We know David's caring wish to all of us in his community would be to "have strength" in these troubling times.

Reply
Cheryl
2/24/2023 06:20:58 pm

Thanks Bob and Ann. He truly was special!

Reply
Kent, Margie,Jonathan,Simon and Luke Holliday
2/25/2023 05:15:12 pm

Reg,Doreen and family
Please know your being thought about and how deeply we pray you find comfort with beautiful memories of David
Deepest condolences
Kent, Margie and boys

Reply
Cheryl Amy
2/27/2023 08:44:12 am

Thanks Margie! We appreciate your thoughts.

Reply
Bill Kalbhenn
2/26/2023 05:02:45 am

My sincere condolences to Dave’s Family and Friends. I have known David on a professional level with our paths crossing often and I enjoyed many discussions with Dave over the years. Dave was passionate about transportation safety and risk management and through his shared knowledge and coaching did a fantastic job. Dave’s impact on trucking company businesses safety culture and driver safety were far reaching and impactful. Rest in Peace My Friend.

Reply
Cheryl Amy
2/27/2023 08:45:10 am

Thank you for your thoughts.

Reply
Glenn Pearo
2/28/2023 08:24:17 pm

I had the pleasure of working with Dave starting when we were both teens at Scarboro Movers. Dave was one of the best at whatever he did. My condolences to Mr. and Mrs. Gaskin (Mrs. Gaskin played the organ for my wedding in 1987 at Melville) and to the rest of his family. Gone too soon

Reply
Cheryl Amy
3/2/2023 06:59:21 am

Thanks for your kind words, Glenn.

Reply
Bruce and Anne Compton
3/4/2023 06:16:08 pm

Anne and I are saddened to hear about David’s sudden death. He I’ll always be remembered as a gentle giant, willing to take on so many challenges at church, home, or work. He enjoyed playing on Melville Church’s slo-pitch team. We pray for God’s peace and comfort on the entire family.

Reply
Cheryl Amy
3/5/2023 01:16:47 pm

Thank you Ann and Bruce. Your prayers are appreciated. 🙏

Reply
Jae and Kinga
3/5/2023 11:40:53 pm

Our deepest sympathy Sheryl, Vinton, Ella and Kiara. We're so sorry to learn of Dave's passing. Losing such an integral part of one's life is so difficult. Our hearts go out to each of you. Peace

Reply
Karen MacQuarrie
3/6/2023 07:10:01 am

I'm very sorry to hear of your loss. David was a sweetheart. I remember him playing his guitar and singing in church. And singing in the choir too. Your family is an integral part of Melville for me. The Gaskins were part of my growing up, and a pleasure to know. The world is a lesser place without David. Love Karen.

Reply
Cheryl Amy
3/6/2023 09:30:29 am

Thanks Karen. We've been thinking about you at this time also.

Reply
Sarah Stewart
3/10/2023 10:13:16 am

Thinking of all of you with lots of love. I'm so sorry for your loss and your pain. It's so unfair. I'll remember my cousin David with a big smile on his face.

Reply
Cheryl Amy
3/10/2023 11:15:41 am

Thanks for your kind thoughts, Sarah!

Reply
Lorne McNeil
3/11/2023 08:26:39 pm

My condolences to the entire Gaskin family
I remember Dave when I was a young person in Meville Church
To me he was a gentle giant to me
Gone way to young
God bless everyone

Reply
Cheryl Amy
3/13/2023 11:27:54 am

Thanks Lorne!

Reply

Your comment will be posted after it is approved.


Leave a Reply.

    Welcome. If you would like to leave a message of condolence, click on the comments line in the obituary, then scroll down to the section for leaving a reply​

    Past Obituaries

    March 2023
    February 2023
    January 2023
    December 2022
    November 2022
    October 2022
    September 2022
    August 2022
    July 2022
    June 2022
    May 2022
    April 2022
    March 2022
    February 2022
    January 2022
    December 2021
    November 2021
    October 2021
    September 2021
    August 2021
    July 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021
    April 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    December 2018
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    March 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016

Testimonials

"I just wanted to say how pleased we were with the help you guys provided to us. I was very nervous about the whole situation however you made us feel very comfortable and at ease. Very professional yet personal, no pressure just quality service. We are recommending you guys every chance we get”  ​Mary
“Hi Shawn, just taking a moment finally to express my gratitude on the wonderful services you have provided thus far. Your staff (Lisa) has been wonderful with everything. A true professional and very empathetic and compassionate to our loss. She did an amazing job in preparing mom for our intimate viewing. Mom looked exactly how she would've if still with us. I was so pleased to see how perfect everything was.”  Carlo
“Thank you so much I not sure if you are told enough but you truly are amazing for what you do the help you give the relief you give people after losing a loved one I want to thank you.”  
“Shawn, please accept our thanks for making the cremation process simple and dignified. You could not have been any more helpful and I am very grateful for your ‘virtual’ presence.” 
“Once again, thank you so much for your kind service on behalf of myself and her family, we thank you for making a difficult time seamless” 

    Contact Us

Submit
Immediate Need
If you have an immediate need for a loved one, please call us now. ​
​We have a licensed staff member on call 24 hours a day to assist you at this difficult time.
​
​​Kitchener Office: 
1601 River Road East, Unit 28A,  Kitchener, ON   N2A 3Y4
519-772-1237  kitchener@tricitycremations.com
Licence #1051
Cambridge Office:
383 Elgin Street North, Unit 10,  Cambridge, ON   N1R 8C1
​
519-267-7199  cambridge@tricitycremations.com
​
Licence #1280

Canadian Federation of
 Independent Business
Picture
Consumer Protection Ontario
Picture
Funeral Service
Association of Canada
Picture
Ontario Funeral
Service Association
Picture
​​Licensed by
​Bereavement Authority of Ontario
Picture
Consumer Information Guide
​© 2022 Tri-City Cremation Services.  All rights reserved.
  • Home
  • About
  • Cremation
  • Burial
  • Preplanning
  • Grief Resources
  • Obituaries & Condolences
  • Contact