David was born on December 26, 1934 in Grassland, Alberta to Ralf and Gladys McKenzie. He had three sisters and three brothers David, Doug, Mike, Joan, Dora and Jean. He grew up on a farm in Grassland until he was 2 years old and his family moved to Lumby. David said he had a great childhood especially with his siblings to get into trouble with. They then moved to Armstrong as young children.
David married his wife Lila Nelson in Bently, Alberta. His wife passed away in 1977 in a motorcycle accident and then David raised his 3 children and 2 foster children on his own. David never remarried. He worked 3 years in Hunter Range as a sheep herder, then worked as a bricklayer for 15 years until he then worked on his 130 acre farm on Grandview flats in Armstrong.
David never really retired; he worked on his farm until he was unable to in 2014. He had a great relationship with all his children, Juanita, Kim, Rob and Foster children Diana and Susan, he said because he was both "mom and dad" to them.
David loved music of any type but mostly western. He liked hockey to both watch on TV or play. He loved riding horses and anything to do with them. David also rode many motorbikes and quads whenever he had time to do so. He enjoyed his quiet time in the open country sides while horseback riding, herding sheep or motor biking. David was a very easy going person. He lived in a cabin on his farm when he retired way up in the hills. He found this very beautiful and peaceful. Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded to the family at www.MyAlternatives.ca.
Arrangements entrusted to Alternatives Funeral & Cremation Services® Armstrong 250-546-7237 & Vernon 250-558-0866.
Alternatives Funeral & Cremation Services