Passing of David G. Humphrey

HONOURABLE DAVID G. HUMPHREY, Q.C. (Merciful Dave)

 

Died in his sleep on Sunday, May 17, 2009, at age 83. Predeceased by his beloved Lorraine and Hilda. Survived by his loving girlfriend Joan Wylie. Proud father of Barbara (Dr. Mark Rykiss), Susan (Glenn Hainey), Nancy (Dr. Timothy Deakon), David M. Humphrey (Susan), Mary Humphrey (Mark Colebourn) and Stacey (Bradley Emerson). Adored grandfather of David and Sarah Marantz, David, Laura and Michael Hainey, Alex and Katie Deakon, Heather and Jake David Humphrey, Scott and Riley Emerson. Dear brother of Anthony (Mary). Much loved by his many nieces, nephews and step-grandchildren. Dave lived life to the fullest, without regrets. He was a Veteran of the American Navy, a graduate of Osgoode Hall Law School, an Assistant Crown Attorney, preeminent defence counsel, a Justice of the Superior Court of Ontario, and proud recipient of the Criminal Lawyers' Association G. Arthur Martin Criminal Justice Medal. In 2005, Dave was honoured to be recognized by The Advocates' Society, in the book Learned Friends, as one of fifty of the finest advocates practising in Ontario from 1950 to 2000. He was an enthusiastic golfer, motorcyclist, sailor, photographer and traveller. Most of all, he enjoyed the company of his countless friends and the love of his family. In characteristic candour and humour, Dave wanted it known that he was enjoying his government pension and that he "reluctantly gave up the ghost". Friends may call at the Turner and Porter Yorke Chapel, 2357 Bloor St. W., at Windermere, east of the Jane subway, on Friday from 7-9 p.m. and Saturday afternoon from 1-4 p.m. A celebration of Dave's life will be arranged for next week. Details to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations would be gratefully accepted by the Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital.