In Ottawa, in his 80th year, of complications from a stroke following surgery. Devoted husband, father, grandfather, athlete, adventurer, diplomat, enthusiastic amateur cellist & Italian student. Beloved son of the late Richard & Marjorie Preston of Durham, NC & Kingston, ON. Much loved brother of Peter (Pam) & predeceased by his dear sister Carol. His wife Kate, children VK & Nico (Amy) & grandson Ryven deeply mourn the passing of this brave, good, & kind man. Our family enjoyed accompanying David on his Foreign Service postings to Indonesia, Ghana, Australia, Bangladesh (Canadian High Commissioner) & Poland (Canadian Ambassador). We thank the staff of The Edinburgh for their loving care, The Ottawa Hospital, our wonderful family physician Dr Chopra, the therapists & the health workers who supported David so well. A private interment will take place at Beechwood Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to attend a Memorial Service to be held on Saturday May 27th in the Sacred Space of the Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Ave. Ottawa ON at 3:00p.m. followed by a reception.
Donations in David's memory may be made to OrKidstra or Heart & Stroke.
Digital Guestbook
Anne-Marie Bourcier & Jean-Guy Saint-Martin
Michael Small
Dear Kate - Denise and I were deeply saddened to hear of your loss after a difficult last fifteen months for David. There is an inter-generational relationship between our families. My parents were first of all great friends with David's parents. I still remember you and David arriving in our house in Dar-es-Salaam in early 1970 as backpackers who had only recently met in Africa. In return you were very kind to both of my parents in your retirement and theirs in Manor Park. I warmly remember a number of Christmas dinners in your home where we had a chance to meet Ginni, Nico and Amy. And of course, you organized that unforgettable archaeology expedition that we took to the Kimberley when we were posted in Australia in August 2014. David's energy, his graciousness and his good humour made all of these occasions special. We hope to maintain the family connection in the future when you come to B.C. visit Nico, Amy and Ryven.
John Higginbotham
Adieu to David, a long time family friend, Manor Park neighbour, fellow runner and distinguished Foreign Service Officer. A life well lived and kindness warmly remembered. Sincerest condolences to Kate and family.
JACKIE MERCER
Very saddened to learn of David's passing. I have very fond memories of knowing David for over 60 years along with his dear parents. He was a special friend. . To Kate, VK, Nico, Ryven, Peter and Pam, Jim and I and family send you all our love and sincere condolences at this difficult time.
Colleen Swords and Björn Johansson
Kate: So sorry to hear of David's Passing. He was a wonderful colleague and one in whom you could put your trust to receive authentic, informed advice.
DIANA RIVINGTON
Dear Kate and Family, My condolences on David's death. May his memory be a blessing to you. Diana
Hector Cowan
Belated condolences. Davis was one of my most valued colleagues during my Almaty and other ex-USSR postings.
Nicole Perron
Dear Kate,
Arthur has already signed your guestbook as a colleague of David but I wanted to add that, having worked alongside you at CIDA, I did feel such sadness for your loss upon hearing of his passing. May the memories that you created together and with your family be of comfort and joy as time goes by. You are in my thoughts.
Christopher George
Dear Kate and family. We are remembering wonderful David today…his Memorial Day at Beechwood. What a delightful and accomplished man…we miss him. Chris and Sarah
Dear Kate, Jean-Guy joins me in expressing our deep sadness to learn of David's death. He was a great colleague. Our thoughts are with you and extended Preston family. Wishing you courage going forward. Anne-Marie & Jean-Guy