David George McKay (July 13, 1960 - March 30, 2026)
The family of David George McKay, age 65, is deeply saddened to announce his sudden passing at Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia on March 30, 2026, after a prolonged period of illness. David was born in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia, the son of George and Joan (nee Chisholm) McKay, New Glasgow. Besides his parents, he is survived by his partner, Linda Nguyen, Vancouver, B.C., his son, George, Edmonton, AB. and his sisters and their families: Barb (Klaus) Schuerkamp (Jeffrey, Jennifer), Tumbler Ridge, B.C., Cathy (Brian) Roberts, Kelowna, B.C., Marlene McKay, New Glasgow and Angela McKay (Ron Bryce), (Alaina & Joey), Stellarton, NS. He is also survived by numerous aunts, cousins and his uncle, Garth Chisholm. He was predeceased by uncles, Jack, Bill & Harold Chisholm; aunt, Winnie Chisholm; uncles, Rev. Robert (Bob) McKay and William (Bill) McKay Sr. and cousins William (Bill) McKay Jr. and Dwayne Chisholm.
David grew up in New Glasgow, the only boy in a house full of sisters. He was an active child and always the first one up on Christmas morning. Summers were spent waterskiing, boating and enjoying fun times with cousins at the family cottage in Little Harbour. He was personable, knowledgeable and had a good sense of humour. He was a skilled guitar player and loved playing loud music with his friends and band mates in the basement. They did a beautiful rendition of Stairway to Heaven. Music continued to be important to him throughout his life. He also spent years practicing Taekwondo. He attended New Glasgow High School and went on to become a licensed plumber in Nova Scotia.
David was very proud of his son George and did his best to be there for him in his early years, going fishing and spending time at the cottage. George fondly remembers trying to refurbish an old rowboat for fishing with his Dad. They repeatedly and stubbornly tried sealing the holes with a thick and very expensive sealer. Every time they thought they had it sealed, it leaked again, sometimes out in the middle of the water. These were funny memories of good times. George doesn't remember ever catching many fish, but that David was always content to just enjoy nature with him. George is still an avid fisherman and appreciates that it's not about the fish or catching the fish, it’s about the moment and being at peace in nature and just living in that moment.
Due to challenges David faced in his teenage years, addiction entered his life and affected every aspect and relationship going forward. David did seek treatment which helped him through many years at various stages of his life. Mom and Dad were always there for him and Cathy and Barb were of great comfort and guidance to him through his health issues in later life.
We would like to acknowledge Linda Nguyen for her love, friendship and commitment to David over the years. Arrangements are under the direction of Vancouver Memorial Services, Vancouver, B.C. as per his wishes. Cremation to take place. We will love and remember him always. May he rest in peace.