Obituary of David Cortvriend

To view the livestreamed service, please click HERE.

Our dad, David Cortvriend, succumbed to his independent and incredibly brave battle with cancer on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 at the age of 65.

Beloved son of Robin-Graeme and Mary Cortvriend of Hendersonville, North Carolina. Dear brother of Sarah Cortvriend of Waynesville, North Carolina, and predeceased by his cherished younger brother Andrew Cortvriend, who was a namesake for both David’s great-nephew and grandson.

David was born in Sunderland, England on what our Gran describes as, “a cold spring English afternoon.” Our Grandfather made it just in time to get his labouring love a cup of tea before David fiercely arrived. David left a trail of smoke up until his last days. A slightly reckless and unconventional man, but nonetheless, loved.

Especially missed by his daughter Nicole Cortvriend-Cooper, his beloved protector who always stood firmly in his corner with utmost love; and his daughter Melinda Cortvriend-Culp, who David often referred to as his “first born” and was never hesitant to put David to the test of truth, that he himself ironically instilled in her. Melinda’s partner Steve Culp will miss the sports chats, as well as an easy flow of laughter and great food.

David is also survived by his niece, Andrew’s daughter, Savanna Cortvriend-Cavacas, her husband Michael Cavacas, and their precious son, Wilder Andrew. Also remembered fondly by sister-in-law Terri Cortvriend and her partner Charles Perry.

David lived a full life and was content with his ultimate demise. He served in the Navy, was an avid outdoorsman and a valuable member of Resurfice Corporation, the company he proudly served for nearly four decades, and continued to work post-diagnosis because he simply “liked his job”.

Instilling a foundation of activeness combined with the value of togetherness without fuss. He shared with us the simplicity and magic of both nature and recreation, which show up in many layers of parenting our children.

Maximus Andrew, Simon Michael, Miles Graeme-Andreas, and Atticus Chad-James, have already received some of the many lessons David instilled in his girls.

Additionally saddened by David’s passing is the mother of his children, Susan LaForge and her partner Michael LaForge, who so lovingly maintained the home David called “his castle,” and many near and dear friendships filled with fun, which David held dear. He especially cherished the years of weekends spent at Doe Lake indulging in recreation, and letting loose after an honourable week of hard work. A notable nod to time enjoyed playing foosball.

Melinda and Nicole would like to thank Aunt Sarah, who is always looking out lovingly for her nieces; and of course our Grandmother Mary, currently a devoted caretaker to our Grandpa Robin, married over 68 years.

Additionally, thanks to Dr. Yew, Nurse Bernadette, and the wonderful support and care we received from both his extended palliative team, and Hospice Waterloo Region. An extra-special thank you to Nurse Kelley, who decided to just sit and wait when David’s breathing became ‘suspect’ after his morning care. There is no doubt that David preferred to find rest in the absence of any fuss, or his broken-hearted daughters.

Cremation has taken place, and a Visitation will be held at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S, Waterloo on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The Memorial Service will occur in the funeral home’s chapel on Wednesday, October 16, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow.

In lieu of flowers, Melinda and Nicole ask that in David’s name, donations be made to support as many children as possible in being able to attend a week of sleepover summer camp at the YMCA of Three Rivers Camp Waabanaki, a place Sarah, David, and Andrew frequented as children, eventually becoming counsellors and lifeguards into their youth and young adulthood. A fantastic and memorable opportunity that every child deserves to enjoy. These donations may be arranged through www.erbgood.com or by visiting this tribute page created for David by the YMCA of Three Rivers.

May you find peace dad. We all love you.