Obituary of David Gregory Holmes

It is with profound sadness that the family of David Holmes announces his passing on Sunday,August 20, 2017, at the age of 67.

Beloved husband of Carol Bretzloff and proud father of Phillip Holmes (Alina). Cherished grandfather of Mason and Amelie. Son of the late Kenneth and Hettie Mae Holmes. Dear brother of Judy Holmes (Gord Salt). Sadly missed by Phillip Bretzloff, Sylvia Bretzloff, Peter Robb. Fondly remembered by nieces, Rebecca, Laura, Katie and Traci, and nephews, Joey and Scott.

David was a native of Pointe Claire, Quebec. He was a graduate of Mount Allison University in Sackville, New Brunswick, where he studied English, Philosophy, Religion, and Art History.

David was an accomplished athlete. He was a basketball star and a standout in track and field. He broke the record for the shot-put and javelin on the Island of Montreal.

In 1975 he received a Bachelor of Education degree in Physical Education from McGill University.

He taught Physical Education at Pontiac High School in Shawville, Quebec, for 35 years. He coached many sports teams from track and field to volleyball, soccer and football. But his favourite was basketball.

David had another side. He loved and taught agriculture, drama, and music. He enjoyed listening to and playing music. He was a drummer and guitarist and bass singer in the Valley Festival Chorus and the Chorale du Conservatoire de musique de Gatineau.

He was a member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church for 40 years where he worked in the Sunday School for 11 years, served on the church council, and sang in the choir.

He tilled the soil of Netherleigh Farm on the corner of the Front Road and the Zion Line for many years and loved every one of his Hereford steers and many, many dogs. It was a proud day when his son picked up the plough and began to farm too.

David was a friend and respected role model to literally thousands of students many who knew him as ‘Homer.’ He was a quiet voice of reason in any situation and was always available for counsel or for friendship to anyone who needed him.

Friends may call at Hayes Funeral Home, 134 Centre Street, Shawville, Quebec, on Thursday, August 24 from 7 to 9 p.m., and Friday August 25 from 2-4 and 7-9 pm.  There will be no visitation on the day of the funeral.

Funeral service and interment to be held at Zion Lutheran Church, Schwartz, Quebec, on Saturday, August 26 at 11 a.m.

Donations can be made to the Pontiac Community Hospital Foundation in David’s memory.