With heavy hearts we share the passing of David George McBurney. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, and mentor, who left this world on August 2, 2025. Though his absence leaves a deep void, his love, laughter, and legacy will live on in all who knew him.
Dave was the devoted husband of his soulmate Janie, with whom he recently celebrated 20 beautiful years of marriage. A partnership filled with joy, laughter, and unwavering love. He is survived by his elder brother Daryl (Elaine), and his greatest pride his three children: John (Lee Anne), Steve (Melissa), and McKenzie (Dave). Nothing brought him more joy than being "Papa" to his six granddaughters: Sothea, Paige, Attley, Penny, Elianna, and Karsyn. His eyes lit up whenever they were near, and he never missed a chance to tell the world how proud he was of each one.
Dave lived life fully and fearlessly. A gifted salesman and entrepreneur, he didn’t just build a career, he built relationships. People were drawn to his magnetic presence, his boundless energy, and his rare ability to make everyone feel like they mattered. He led with integrity, kindness, and an infectious enthusiasm that made work feel like play.
Outside of work, Dave embraced life with open arms and an open heart. He really enjoyed hockey, golf and boating, but loved traveling the world with Janie. Some of his favorite places to visit were Panama, Chile, Rome, Tel Aviv, Amsterdam, and Costa Rica. Dave was always seeking out new adventures, new stories, and new moments to treasure. One of Janie’s fondest memories with Dave was renting a convertible and driving down Hwy #1 from San Francisco to Los Angeles. They enjoyed that trip so much that Dave bought himself a BMW convertible so they could continue to have those good times wherever they went.
Music was the rhythm of his life. The golden rock of the 50s and 60s filled every room he entered, and often spilled out onto the dock, into the night. He danced freely, laughed loudly, and loved deeply. His record collection was his time machine, and he was always ready to take you along for the ride.
He had a sharp wit and a love for spirited debate, though somehow, Janie was the only one who could consistently win. He was a born “supervisor” when a task was at hand, but no one minded, because there was always a cold drink, good food, and that familiar twinkle in his eye waiting at the end.
Perhaps nowhere captured Dave’s spirit better than the dock at their home, lovingly known as “The McBurney Marina.” It was a place of gathering, of laughter, and of stories told under the stars. It was where music filled the air, friendships deepened, and the joy of togetherness was celebrated. Just like Dave, it was welcoming, generous, and full of life.
David George McBurney was one of a kind. His legacy is etched in the hearts of those who loved him, through memories, through music, through the echoes of his laughter, and the warmth he left behind. He will be missed more than words can say.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Hawk Ridge Golf Club on Saturday Aug 23rd, 2025, from 1 to 4pm. 1151 Hurlwood Ln, Severn, On, L3V 0Y6. All are welcome to join in honouring Dave’s memory. If desired, memorial donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation and will be received by Carson Funeral Homes – L.Doolittle Chapel (705)326-3595.
Online messages of condolence may be made at
www.carsonfuneralhomes.com
Condolences
Ron and Bonny Whitehead
Aug 23, 2025Janie: Bonny and I were so saddened to hear of Dave’s passing. A flood of memories from years past, through our high school years and after, bring smiles and great memories of Dave. Our thoughts are with you and your family as you try to cope with your loss. May it comfort you all to know you that old friends from Dave’s past share this loss with you all. Ron and Bonny Whitehead
Anne Dean
Aug 21, 2025Daryl, Elaine and families....so sorry to hear of David's death. My sincere condolences.
Deanna Warzecha
Aug 15, 2025I am so very sorry to hear of the loss of a very special person in your lives. My thoughts and condolences are with you as you celebrate his life. Deanna Warzecha
Ken May
Aug 14, 2025My Deepest condolences to the entire McBurney Family. Great memories of the Christmas Parties, Golf and boating. Dave was a true friend to Gail and myself.
Scott MacKenzie
Aug 13, 2025I'd like to send the condolences of the MacKenzie family to our McBurney cousins (including Janie who made him so happy) and to let them know that we remember David well for his kindness and good nature. He'll be missed. Strange, it seems like only yesterday he was jumping off our cottage dock during a visit for Expo '67. We'd never met him before but he played w/ all we kids so often that we couldn't wait for his return. It was just under 10 years later for the Olympics but it was worth it.
Bruno Sodaro
Aug 13, 2025My sincere condolences to you and your family, John. May your father rest in peace.
Mark Wretham
Aug 12, 2025Our deepest condolences go out to the entire McBurney family. We were very lucky to spend lots of great times with Dave & Janie at their beautiful home where they welcomed us with open arms! Dave was a great man and we will cherish our memories of him forever. Sending lots of love and big hugs from the Wretham family
Nick Swirla
Aug 11, 2025To all of the McBurney Family please accept my deepest condolences on the recent passing of Dave. He made this world a better place & for those who knew Dave, he left us all with a “Dave McBurney tale” that would put a smile on all our faces! Rest in Peace my Friend and give those Maple Leafs a shake from up there!