Obituary of David Charles Minnick

Born in Fort Erie on December 26, 1940, passed away peacefully at his home by the lake, on August 11, 2023 Beloved husband to his “bride”, Pammy (nee Wasilik), of almost 50 years. Dad to Dan (Carina), Molly (Cam) and Patrick (Giselle). Much loved and adored “Grumpy” to Eben, Ruby, Coco, Wesley and Lola.He will also be missed by brothers and sisters, Bill (Carol), Greg (Claudette), Karen Pomeroy (Bob), Marie Groot (the late John), Sheila Capriotti (the late Rick), Dolores, and Chris (Sheryl), sister-in-law Janice Wasilik (the late Wayne), as well as by many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. Predeceased by his parents Bill and Loretto Minnick (nee Madden), brother Daniel, and sister Marcia.

Dave had what some might call a colourful personality that could be a bit rough around the edges at times, but underneath it all he was just a big softie with a heart of gold who would do anything for anyone. He was known for his long, entertaining stories, which he loved to repeat often, mostly about growing up in Smithville and Hamilton, stories which earned him such nicknames as “The King of the Mountain” and “Dave the Dude” (or D DUDE for those of you familiar with the smart car). No nickname could effectively capture his skiing prowess in Ellicottville NY – a pastime he cherished and dubbed “the second-best decision he ever made” - only beat-out by his marriage to Pam. Dave’s youth was spent swimming, fishing, and riding bicycles throughout the rural farmlands of Niagara. He loved tearing up the dance floor with friends. He spent years working for Northern Electric in Montreal where he became “fluent” in French. Dave then turned his interest to buying, selling and appraising real estate – a career that lasted over five decades during which he made many longstanding, close friendships.

A master at getting people together, nothing made Dave happier than being surrounded by his family and watching his grandkids grow up. He was the kind of guy you just didn’t forget once you met him: a genuinely unique, larger-than-life character who was much loved and will be deeply missed. A true artist in obscenities, we know he’s out there somewhere swearing up a storm, knowing that he left us just a little too soon. We love you, Dad.

Friends will be received at Donald V. Brown Funeral Home, 36 Lake Avenue Drive, Stoney Creek on Friday, August 18, 2023, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. For those who wish, a memorial donation may be made to the charity of your choice. Online condolences and notes of sympathy may be left at www.donaldvbrown.ca