Born February 18, 1928, in Holland, David Van Damme lived a life that typified the best of the greatest generation. His teenage years were spent in the Dutch resistance of the Nazi occupation of Holland. His adventures as a young man included serving in the Dutch Royal Air Force. Like most of his generation, his acts of sacrifice and heroism were undertaken with little fanfare and no parades. He emigrated to Canada from the 'old country' in 1951, where he worked very hard and made a life as a master carpenter, a husband, a father and an extraordinary gardener. To his contemporaries, David was a man of few words and capable hands. To his family, he was a stalwart, steady presence through both difficulty and joy.
He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 22 years, Thora Reid - Van Damme; his children Jane of Keremeos, John (Sharon) of Terrace, and Patricia (Myron) of Enderby; grandchildren Nadine (Chris) of Enderby, Rob (Juanita) of Fort McMurray, and Nathan (Katelynn) and great-grandchildren Ryker and Carson of Innisfail; as well as numerous children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren from Thora's family. David is also survived by his brother Pete and sisters Dien, Betsy, and Joke and their families in Holland.
By request and due to the current restrictions on public gatherings, there will not be a formal public funeral service.
Memorial donations are gratefully accepted to ADRA Canada.