Alway, David

David passed away peacefully at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, laughter, and music that touched everyone fortunate enough to know him. His life was defined by joy—joy he created, joy he shared, and joy he inspired in others.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Brenda, who was his partner in every sense of the word, and by his children, Gwendolyn Bombardier and Phillip Alway, who carry forward his kindness, curiosity, and a love of shared laughter. David held a quiet pride in his grandsons, Matthew and Joshua Bombardier.

David was predeceased by his siblings—Lois and her husband Glenn Zimmer, Shirley and her husband Tom Depper, and Walter (Guy) Alway and his wife Madeline. He will be fondly remembered by his cousin, Joan Milner. He leaves behind a large extended family of nieces and nephews — Linda (deceased), Barbara, Theresa, Patsy, Nancy, Edward (deceased), Michelle, and Craig (deceased) — all of whom held a place in his heart.

David’s working life was marked by curiosity, skill, and a steady dedication to doing things well. He started out as a Burroughs business machine technician before moving to Diffracto, where his ingenuity earned him a patent award. He later applied his talents as a purchaser for Flag Fire Equipment, Elan Tool and Die, and the Lambton Kent District School Board.

A man of many passions, David found his greatest happiness in the simple pleasures of life. He loved to sing—at church, in barbershop groups, or simply whenever the mood struck. His voice was a familiar comfort to many, and his enthusiasm was infectious. He was always ready for a game, whether cards, board games, or anything that brought people together around a table. His sense of humour was legendary, and his laughter had a way of lifting spirits instantly.

Square dancing and Square Dance Camping was another of David’s great lifelong joys. For over 30 years, he called for clubs across Windsor, Essex, Wheatley, Tilbury, Charing Cross, and Sarnia, bringing dancers together with his steady voice, warm humour, and gift for making every gathering feel like a celebration.
David also cherished time spent outdoors, particularly golfing. He loved spending time at his winter oasis in Citrus Park, Florida. Remarkably, he played baseball well into his 70s, proving that age never dimmed his spirit for fun.

Boating was another of his great loves, and some of his happiest moments during his illness were spent at the yacht club, watching the boats drift by while enjoying a DQ Blizzard. It was a ritual that perfectly captured who he was: someone who appreciated life’s sweetness and never missed a chance to savour it.
He especially looked forward to his Tuesday morning coffee and treats with friends at the Sandpiper — a standing date he valued so much that he happily booked appointments around it.

The family is deeply grateful to the dedicated staff at Sarnia Bluewater Health and Toronto General Hospital, whose compassion and expertise supported David through many challenging moments, including his lung transplant in 2024.

David’s presence made the world brighter, and his absence will be deeply felt. Yet the memories he created—songs sung, jokes shared, games played, and quiet moments by the water—will continue to echo in the hearts of those who loved him.

Family and friends will be received at McCormack Aquamation, Burial & Cremation Services, 254 George Street (at College Avenue) for visitation on Sunday January 25 from 2 – 4 pm. Funeral Service to take place at (NOTE CHANGE OF SERVICE TO) Dunlop Central United Church, 757 Rosedale Avenue, Sarnia on Monday January 26 at 11 am., visitation 1 hour prior. Interment to follow at Lakeview Cemetery.

Remembrances and condolences may be expressed to the family online in “David’s Guestbook” at mccormackfuneralhomesarnia.com.

His family invites all who knew him to remember him with a smile, just as he would have wanted.