Dave Forbes

David Martin Forbes

After a short illness with cancer on Sunday, June 20th, 2010 at Portage District General Hospital, David Martin Forbes passed away at the age of 57 years. Predeceased by his beloved father James P. Forbes and mother Mary Forbes. Left to treasure his memory are his wife Jacquie of Portage La Prairie; son Jason (Tanya) Forbes of Calgary, AB; daughter Tamara (Kory Jonasson) Forbes of Langruth, MB; sister Ann (Clarence) Nichols of Oakville, MB; brother James W. (Brenda) Forbes of Ottawa, ON.

Dave was born in Aberdeen, Scotland on June 1st, 1953, immigrated to Canada on November 7th, 1957 and in 1982 he became a Canadian Citizen.

Dave received his education at Fort La Reine, Prince Charles and Portage Collegiate Institute. He attended RRCC for Air Craft Maintenance and then he changed his career and began a 10 year career with Phillips Cable until closing in 1989. At that time he worked for Vicon, only to take a later course with Pattal for Entrepreneurship following Vicon's closure. Dave had several jobs working with in the retail business. Dave cared deeply for all his customers and it showed in his popularity. Dave was working at RONA at the time of his passing.

Dave thoroughly enjoyed being with people, which demonstrated his commitment to the Portage Community. He was involved with Portage Minor Hockey and Ringette at many different levels. He became involved with the 575 Terrier Cadet Squadron in 1996 as a 2nd Lt. He enjoyed helping to make the youth of our city into good citizens. Dave was on the planning committee for the Strawberry Festival for several years until it changed to the Potato Festival. He also was a member of the Foresters and UCT. He volunteered for many events on their behalf. As part of UCT Dave assisted with security for the Portage Terriers Games and loved to welcome people to each game.

Dave took pride in the many renovations to his home. He took great joy in creating a beautiful environment for his family and enjoyed gathering with family and friends. He liked the time he spent helping his buddy (Brian) with many projects on the Coyston Island.

Dave's sense of humour never failed him, even during the toughest hours. He managed to make those who were with him smile or chuckle on many occasions. He handled out smiles, kisses, hugs and handshakes to all who made visits. He was as especially proud of the day members of the 575 Terrier Squadron came for a visit.

Dave married Jacquie, his soul mate of 35 years on August 9, 1975. He was thrilled at the birth of his children Jason and Tamara. Dave welcomed Tanya (Morton) Forbes and Kory Jonasson to the family with open arms and an open heart. He will always be fondly remembered as "Pappa Bear", gentle and kind.

There will be a celebration of Dave's life followed by a time to visit on Sunday, June 27, 2010 at the Royal Canadian Legion Hall, 275 Duke Ave., beginning shortly after 2:00 pm.

As expressions of sympathy, if friends so wish, donations may be made memory of David Forbes to the Central Plains Cancer Care, 318 Sask Ave. E, Portage La Prairie, MB, R1N 0K8

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel 857-4021 www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com