Whitehorse Daily Star

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John David Austin (Dave)

September 23, 1942 – July 11, 2022

It is with deep sadness that, following a brief aggressive neurological disease, John David Austin (Dave) passed away in St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC.

He is survived by his beloved wife and cherished companion of 22 years, Elaine. Dave is also survived by daughters, Cheryl Hill (Peter), and Tracy Leigh Austin (Gary Toombs), grandsons, Chris Harris (Thu) and Ryan Harris.

Dave was predeceased by his father, John Austin, his mother Jessie (nee Douglas) and brother, Robert.

Dave lived 47 years in Whitehorse, Yukon and was known for his insightful and understated contributions throughout his career and civic activities.

Special thanks to the neurology and palliative care doctors and staff at St. Paul’s Hospital for their exceptional clinical and compassionate care.

At Dave’s request no service will be held.

Comments (8)

Roy Hillman on Sep 16, 2022 at 3:24 pm

I worked with Dave at IBM after his move back to Toronto from Vancouver and he was a truly great friend. I visited with Dave shortly after his move to Whitehorse while I was located in Vancouver and could not help but notice how many friends he had made in such a short time. People gravitated to Dave. I will miss and think of him. My thoughts are with his family and friends.

Allan Mattacott on Sep 11, 2022 at 12:20 pm

Worked with Dave at IBM Toronto and it was always a pleasure.

Susie Campbell on Jul 26, 2022 at 2:33 pm

Elaine❤️ if my arms would reach I would be giving you a big hug. Such sad news.
I will always remember your wedding day and that day likes to eat his pork Blue black. I have never seen that before or after.
Elaine I am sending you warm wishes of peace and love.❤️

Jean Lett on Jul 26, 2022 at 6:26 am

Elaine, I am so saddened to read this obituary. Dave will be missed so much by you, and by many in the community of Whitehorse. Please know that my love goes out to you.

Tracy Timmons on Jul 25, 2022 at 6:15 pm

I can’t believe you are gone Dave. You are certainly going to be missed.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Elaine and family .
Clarence and Tracy

Jim Pollock on Jul 23, 2022 at 7:46 am

Big Hug to you Elaine, wonderful memories with Dave and You over many different enjoyable times.

Debby on Jul 22, 2022 at 8:10 pm

My deepest condolences to the family. Dave was such a gentleman and a kind soul, he will be missed.

Colleen Tyrner on Jul 22, 2022 at 2:45 pm

My condolences to Elaine and the family. I was so sorry to hear about Dave. He was a lovely man, always worked hard. I knew him from Council. He will be missed by all.

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