David Anthony Vokey passed away suddenly on August 31, 2022, after a short but brave battle with a brain haemorrhage. He was 67.
David was born April 17, 1955, in St. John’s, Newfoundland,
second of four children to Annie (Stoyles) Vokey and the late (Aaron) Claude Vokey.
He met the love of his life, Elizabeth (Betty) Spurrell in 1974 and they were married in 1980. The young couple made their home in several places around Newfoundland as David worked for Newfoundland Hydro, including Deer Lake, Jackson’s Arm, and Stephenville, before settling in Hillview where they raised two beautiful daughters, Leanne and Jenelle. In 2006, the family moved to Hay River, Northwest Territories where David worked in the mining industry.
David was a devoted father, proud grandfather and loving husband. He appreciated the value of hard work and never shied away from a challenge, or the opportunity to learn a new skill. He loved building and tinkering in the garage, his dogs, and spending time at the family cabin at Black River Pond. He was known to tell many great stories over a glass of rum (preferably Lamb’s).
In his later years, David lived out his dream of seeing all his favourite rock bands in
person, including Bob Seger, Pink Floyd and the Eagles. He also enjoyed spending sunny winter vacations in Mexico. In 2016, he was blessed with a granddaughter, Mallory, who instantly became the apple of his eye. He adored being her Poppy.
David is predeceased by his father, Claude Vokey; father-in-law Cecil Spurrell; mother-in-law Geneva (Butt) Spurrell; and sister-in-law Glenys Strowbridge. He is survived by his wife Betty; mother, Annie (Stoyles) Vokey; his sisters Sharon (Gerald) Keough and Dale (Brian) Power; his brother Graham; his daughters Leanne (Scott) Clouthier and Jenelle (Tyler) King; granddaughter Mallory; and a large extended family.
David will be cremated in Edmonton before returning to Hay River. His remains will
ultimately travel home to Newfoundland, where a memorial service will be held at a later date.
The family requests that donations be made in his name to the Heart and Stroke Foundation; the Stollery Children’s Hospital in Edmonton; or Janeway Children’s Hospital in St. John’s.
Betty, we are deeply saddened to hear of David’s passing. Our thoughts are with you, the girls and all David’s family.
From Wade – “David and I were great friends back in our Hillview days, I will cherish those days forever”
Thinking of David’s Mom, deepest sympathy to her on the loss of her dear son.
Wade and Theresa
Betty I was so sorry to hear of David’s passing. May your memories of your life together bring a smile to your face in your time of sorrow and grief. Condolences to you and your family.
Betty, Leanne ,Jenelle & families so saddened to hear of David’s passing, may all the wonderful memories you have help with your loss. Gone but never be forgotten. Hugs !!
So sorry to hear of David’s passing
Condolences to the family
I had the privilege of working with Dave and always enjoyed our discussions and his sense of humor – he is one that was taken too early my condolences on your loss.
I worked with Dave over the past 5 years treating water at the Lupin Mine. In an industry where people are so quick to pass the blame, Dave was always ready to jump in and get dirty fixing whatever the problems of the day were. During a particularly difficult time, Dave and I talked every morning for about a month to plan out the day before everybody else woke up and starting causing problems. I’ll remember those talks fondly and feel lucky that I had that time with him.
My condolences to Betty and the family. Dave was an amazing friend. I had very amazing time working with him in Nunavut. Prayers are with you.
sorry for your loss….condolences to the family!
My deepest condolence to Betty and all the family. Dave was a great guy and i know how much he loved his family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sorry to hear about my friend, many conversations about hand plane restorations at the old Tungsten mine dinner table will not be forgotten.
So very sorry to hear of David’s pass. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Betty, so very sorry to hear of David’s passing. My sincere condolences to you and your family ??
Our love and prayers to all the family , David was such a vibrant person always helping others and thinking of his next project . Take time to mourn your loss but also celebrate his life .Special thoughts to Annie
Annie, Betty and families. Sorry to hear of David’s passing, condolences to all the families.
Betty, Leanne, Jenelle & families
We were so saddened to hear of David’s passing! May your many happy memories help ease the pain of such a tremendous loss in your lives! Our thoughts and prayers are with you Betty, your daughters and their families in the days and weeks to come! God Bless you all.
So so sorry for your loss.. our condolences to the family.. hugs.
Betty and family
So sorry to hear your sad news. May God give you strength and comfort at this sad time.
So sorry to hear of Dave passing Condolences to the family.
So many memories of Dave in Black River Pond both at our cabin and his. Boyd has memories of Dave and his dad Max in Stoyles country at old cabin. We are thinking of Betty, Leanne , Jenelle , and Aunt Annie , Sharon, Dale and Graham and families and his his special granddaughter Mallory. I’m sure his doggies will miss him also , sending hugs to all of you .
Love Boyd & Shona xxoo
So very sorry for your loss . Sending condolences to all the family and friends.
So very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.