It is with sadness we share the passing of David Neil Primeau on May 7, 2024.
Born in Glasgow, Scotland on December 14, 1944, David first and foremost found happiness as a husband, father and grandfather. He and his wife Sheila would have celebrated 54 years of marriage on May 23rd, 2024. He leaves his wife to mourn him and his dear daughters Sarah Thivierge (Marc) and Elizabeth Primeau LeBlanc (James), as well as his beloved grandchildren, Mason, Andrew, Shelby and Kiersten, and Howie the granddog.
David will be missed by his siblings Mitchell (Alice), William (Rose), Robert and Jane (Terry), his brother-in-law Michael in Australia and his nieces and nephews.
After graduating from Quebec High School, David completed a B.A. (History) in 1967 at Royal Military College in Kingston, Ontario followed by completing an MBA at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
David served as a Naval Officer in the Royal Canadian Navy for 22 years, followed by a successful career as an executive in the Federal Public Service. David was a recipient of the Queen’s Silver, Golden and Diamond Jubilee medals in recognition of worthy and devoted service and reflected the esteem in which they were held by their associates.
From a young age, David was a keen model railroader and train enthusiast. He had long lasting and special friendships with those who shared this interest, as well as from his time at RMC and in the RCN.
The family would like to thank our friends who provided invaluable support to David and his family over the last 3 months as well as the many doctors and nurses who provided care during David’s illness. A special thank you to Christina, Henry, Avry and Gwen, the dedicated doctors of his palliative care team and the many others who provided care throughout his illness.
Family and friends are invited to the interment on Saturday, June 22nd in the National Military Cemetery of Canada (280 Beechwood Ave. Ottawa, ON) at 1pm. Friends are encouraged to arrive 15 minutes prior to the interment and to report to the main building. A reception will follow from 1:30 to 3:30. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society.
Digital Guestbook
David and Nina Nalley
Joan Kelly
I am at a loss for words. I am so sad that you have left us. My sincere condolences to Sheila and all the family. He will be so missed.
Wade Cuthbertson
A great guy and wonderful classmate. I'll miss you, Dave and so will the RMC Class of '67.
Bill Aikman
It was a great shock to have Dave depart us. He was a good friend from his RMC days through to his years in retirement. We will miss him deeply.
Nick Coyle
A great RMC classmate & fellow naval officer. His contributions will be missed by all who knew him. Aye Ready Aye
Carryl Potter
I knew Dave primarily while at the Finishing School for Young Gentlemen in Kingston. Only recently, during luncheons/gatherings by the class of '67, did I get to enjoy his sense of humour and his friendly smile. A gentle man and a gentleman. You were supposed to remain with us in the Departure Lounge for many more years.
JOHN BREWSTER
I am saddened by the loss of Dave. A good friend from college days and early shipboard summer training. I was known to him as deGrasse. The only one who ever called me that. I shall miss you Dave and ensure that I make a donation in your name to Cancer research, near and dear to my heart as a three time survivor.
Peter Fosbery
Very sad to hear of Dave’s passing. A solid Classmate and contributor to alumni of RMC and Class of ‘67.
Michel Charron
A true gentleman. Dave may you rest in peace
John Tyrrell
A good friend for a little over 60 years, Dave will be missed.
We were sad to see you leave us as our next door neighbor and friend five years ago and now we are heartbroken that you are gone.
Our condolences to you Sheila, Sarah and Elizabeth.