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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
THERE, David Victor - It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved David Victor Thera on February 1st, 2025.
David was born on a farm in Spalding, SK, on May 24th, 1937. At a young age, he knew farming was not what he wanted to do, so he joined the Navy so he could see the world. He spent five years in the Royal Canadian Navy, five years on the Department of Transport Ships and 28 years with the Oak Bay Fire Department, retiring as an Assistant Chief.
As a young man, David was very athletic and participated in a number of sports. While in the Navy he played on their football team and was also an amateur wrestler. As a wrestler, he was sent to Toronto to participate in try-outs for the Pan American games in 1959 but unfortunately, an injury during a practice match prevented him from competing. He also participated in baseball, hockey and curling. He was very proud of the many trophies he won, in particular his wrestling trophies.
David's greatest passion was for golf (when he wasn't losing). He received many golfing and curling trophies but he was most proud of the 8 hole-in-ones he scored over the years. His other interests were hunting, fishing and camping with his family.
David is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Elsie, and his 3 children, Colleen (Darryl) Courts, Sandra (David) Mallinson and Doug Thera. He will also be missed by his 8 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Denis (Matilda) Thera and sisters Brenda (Alan) Ballash, Leora (Keith) Sverdahl, sister-in-law Carol Thera and brother-in-law Irving Cosgrove.
The celebration of life will be held at a later date and we can all raise a glass of beer to David. He is now free from the dementia that took him from us so many years ago. It has truly been a long goodbye.
"There was a time when I was free To live my life in harmony, Before the illness, which blighted me, Swept faces and places from my mind People I loved from my memory.
Remember me as I used to be. Think of me; remember my smile The love we shared; linger awhile. I am at peace now, I am me." At rest for all eternity. (The Victoria Times Colonist 22 Feb 2025)
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