David Monteith Chalmers
January 12, 2021
Holding him forever in our hearts but losing him from our arms, the family of David Monteith Chalmers announces his passing at Victoria Hospital in London on Tuesday, January 12, 2021. Beloved husband of Beverly Harley, cherished father of Paul (Julia McMenamin) and Heather (Umar Chaudhry), proud Grampy of Marten and Savannah. Dave leaves his dear sister Mary Flannigan and her children Andrew and Meghan (Patrick Gordon). He will be treasured always by Bev’s brother Ken Potts, his wife Sally, and their children: Joe (Tanya), Fraser (Kelly), Hilary (Gabe).
One of the first baby boomers, Dave was born in London in 1946 to Murray and Dorothy Chalmers and recalled fondly his Broughdale boyhood and Medway High youth. His professional life included a career as a secondary school teacher or administrator at Saunders, Westminster, Banting, Thames, and Lucas, followed by work in the foster care system and several years as a court services officer, carrying out all duties with purpose and integrity.
Early exposure to Muskoka’s allure led to cottage life with Bev, most notably in their classic wooden boat. In retirement Dave indulged his passion for the freedom of solo flight. Winter trips to Anna Maria Island meant new friendships and lasting memories.
We gratefully acknowledge the exceptional medical treatment Dave received at Manatee Memorial Hospital in Florida and the ongoing care and compassion of Dave’s London health network, especially the cancer clinic.
Following Dave’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Interment at Woodland Cemetery, London. A celebration of Dave’s life will be planned when safer times allow. Memorial donations to Ark Aid Street Mission gratefully acknowledged.
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Dear Bev~Tom and I were so sorry to hear of Dave's passing. We saw how hard he fought to live when we were in Florida the last two months of March. Our final memory of Dave is the two of you dancing on the sandy dance floor at the "Oldies Dance". So many fond and fun memories from Anna Maria Island! We will especially miss you two at the pool gatherings at Sunset Beach. Thinking of you, Bev. J&T
Dear Bev~Tom and I were so sorry to hear of Dave's passing. We saw how hard he fought to live when we were in Florida the last two months of March. Our final memory of Dave is the two of you dancing on the sandy dance floor at the "Oldies Dance". So many fond and fun memories from Anna Maria Island! We will especially miss you two at the pool gatherings at Sunset Beach. Thinking of you, Bev. J&T
Dear Bev and family, it was an unhappy surprise to find David's obituary in the paper. As you know, David was a bedrock chemistry teacher that helped me immensely in my move to head the Science Department at Westminster SS. I think back with joy and fondness to the time I was privileged to share with both you and David. It is evident that David went on to share his personality and talents with an even greater community in his work in administration with the London Board of Education and with his second career with the London Middlesex Court. I remember David's gentle humour, his strong classroom presence, and his leadership skills. He will be missed and he will be remembered. May our Lord bring you comfort and peace at this very difficult time.
Bev and family I was truly saddened to hear of the loss of David your dear dear partner. David was such a warm person, a true gentleman and a pleasure for me to work with at Thames. David was an exceptional educator both as a teacher and an administrator. My sincere condolences. Linda
Bev and family, we are thinking of you at this difficult time. We fondly remember Dave for his smile, his quiet sense of humour and the twinkle in his eye. As a teaching colleague at Westminster, I came to appreciate and admire his abilities and the excellent rapport he created with both his students and his colleagues. Our heartfelt condolences. Fran and Don
Anna & I were really saddened to hear of Dave's p assing. He was always a kind gentle person who was respected by everyone. He was well liked by all of his collegues and friends. He will be remembered for a long time. Our thoughts and prayers are with Bev and both families in these difficult times.
My heartfelt condolences to you Ms. Harley. Mr. Chalmers was my Chemistry teacher back at Westminster and I greatly respected the both of you as educators and caring people. He was calm and cool, and a positive influence. His strong classroom presence and humour has permeated into my conducted as an educator. I will always remember him as the best dressed teacher at West.
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I had the pleasure of being taught Chemistry by Mr. Chalmers at Westminster SS. He was one of my absolute favourite teachers. Kind, calm and a great instructor. He's one of the reasons I pursued a career in medical science. My deepest condolences to his family. Just know that he made a difference in every life he touched. God bless.
Deepest condolences to my special teacher Bev and the entire family. Mr. Chalmers was one of my favourite people during high school even though I never had him for a teacher. He was instrumental in the success of the Westminster Track team in the mid to late 80's and a good friend during those years. He will be missed.
Sincerest condolences to the entire family. Mr. Chalmers was truly one of the finest educators I've ever encountered. His enthusiasm for science was infectious and was definitely a major reason why I pursued it after leaving Westminster SS. I will forever treasure my memories of him.
Ms. Harley, you both made a difference in so many lives and I have never forgotten either of you. You are in my thoughts now.
My heartfelt condolences, Ms. Harley. Both you and Mr. Chalmers had a huge, positive impact on my formative years. I'm deeply grateful. Please know you are in my thoughts.
I can imagine your grief Bev. as I experience sorrow since I have read about Dave's death. It was always a joy to meet him accidentally and catch up on his many interesting activities . He will be remembered for his meticulous care in everything he did as a man of fine stature
Dear Bev, So sad to learn of Dave's passing. He was a terrific guy and a really good pickle ball player. I enjoyed our Friday games in Byron. My sincere condolences to you Bev. I'm heartbroken for your loss.
My sincere condolences to Bev and the rest of Dave's loved ones. I got to know Dave while he was VP at Thames S.S. He lingers in my memory as one of the kindest and most sincere administrators I ever worked with. He made you feel like you were important to him and that he cared enough to bring out the best in you. He could keep you spellbound with the stories he would tell in that soft, slow voice, which often served himself up as the punchline, along with with his quiet chuckle. The world is a little bit poorer without him in it but much richer for the legacy he left behind.
Dear Bev, . So sorry to hear of Dave's passing. He was a well -liked and respected educator , who always strove to do his very best for all his students and ,fellow teachers and administrators. He will be much missed by his family, many friends and associates. Our hearts go out to you and Dave's family.
I had the honour of working at Thames S.S. when Dave was a VP there. In conversations with students and staff alike, he would invite one to feel at ease, giving his complete attention at the time. All of us would come away from those conversations feeling heard, respected, worthy and in a better place. Dave brought a light so bright to the world, that it will still shine through fond memories of the way he truly connected with others. May he rest in peace, and may his family find renewed strength in this difficult time, through their memories and expressions of support.
Dave will continue to ride with us in our memories for some time. He was a client with all the heart one could ask for in love for the service we could deliver. Now untied, he can ride with us.
Dear Ms. Harley, I was a student at Westminster in the late 80's, and had both you and Mr. Chalmers as teachers. We were very blessed to have you both, and now that I have a school-age child of my own, I find myself judging his teachers against the high standard that you all set. Sending my condolences to you and the rest of your family.
We are heartbroken to learn of Dave's passing. While expected, it was so unexpected. Dave was a neighbour who became a friend. We enjoyed the neighbourhood pickleball outings, challenging the Word Thief Master, supplying the avid reader with books in this time of covid but most of all, chatting porch side with Dave and Bev sought out by our Jesse. We will miss his humour and will always admire his pragmatic approach to life. Porch side chats will continue with Bev and The Spirit of Dave. Our deepest condolences to Bev and family sent with love and affection.
BEV , I AM VERY SORRY TO HEAR OF DAVE'S PASSING . ALTHOUGH I ONLY HAD OPPORTUNITY TO MEET ONCE , I FEEL THROUGH OUR MANY MEETINGS I GOT TO KNOW DAVE .MY SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO YOU AND FAMILY .
Dear Bev, I am very sorry to hear of Dave's passing. He was truly a kind and caring gentleman. The last time I saw Dave was at the cancer clinic while he was receiving treatment. I sat with him for quite some time and we had a wonderful talk. He was a great listener. He always had time to stop at my desk to give me a hug. He will be missed. RIP Dave. My deepest condolences to Bev and family.
Dear Bev - I am so shocked and saddened to learn of Dave's passing. I have many fond memories of our days at track and field practices and meets, and of his enthusiastic encouragement for each and every member of the team. He was perhaps the most even-keeled individual I ever met, one who genuinely listened to and cared for every student and staff member at Westminster. I enjoyed our unexpected chats in the Oakridge area when we would occasionally bump into each other after our careers had taken us in different directions. His infectious smile will never be forgotten. Thinking of you and your family in these difficult times.
My deepest condolensces to Bev and family. Was always a pleasure to chat with Dave at the various Wildcat functions. Sounds like he had many great stories I wish I could have heard. Thinking of you at this very difficult time.
I am extremely saddened to hear of the loss of such a dear co-worker and friend. David was a pleasure to be around at the Courthouse and made all of our days brighter. I extend my sincere condolences and may he keep shining bright in heaven and through the stars to his loved ones.
The first time I met Dave was a particularly memorable one. While I did not know it at the time, he was assisting a judge who was conducting a jury trial in courtroom 20. I was a visiting judge that day sitting in temporary chambers immediately next door. My good friend and colleague Justice Little had paid me a visit. Neither of us realized that court was in session next door although we should have had that in mind. Stories were told and Justice Little and I were laughing at very loudly. For better or worse, the volume and pitch of our laughs was quite distinctive. Eventually we quieted long enough to hear quiet knocking at the door. It was Dave Chalmers. He was standing in the entranceway. In his soft but ever so professional voice he said - with a little twinkle in his eye and his lips curling upward ever so slightly - "Excuse me your Honours but I'm going to have to close this door. You're both laughing so loudly that you're distracting the jury. In fact, you're making them laugh." He could not have handled the incident better. And that was Dave Chalmers. Professional, committed, caring about his job and the people he worked with: a beaming example of all of the attributes needed for the important role he filled. I was one of many who adored working with him and who felt a huge sense of loss when he retired from the court. I was lucky to know him and am very sorry to have received this news. Heartfelt sympathy to Dave's family members, friends and many co-admirers.
So sorry to hear of your family's loss. I hope a lifetime of memories provide many smiles of remembrance and comfort. Thinking of you and sending hugs.
I am so very sorry for your loss. Dave was a true gentleman and will be missed in the chamber halls of the courthouse. My sincere condolences to you. Grace
We are saddened by the news of Dave's passing and extend our sympathy to you Bev, and to Paul and Heather and family. Dave was a long time neighbour and friend whose company we enjoyed and whose positive attitude impacted to those around him. It was always a pleasure to see him on duty at the court house. He will be missed.
I'm very sad to hear of David's passing. I got to know Dave firstly, through his parents at Elmwood Ave Church and secondly, as a fellow court services officer. Dave was a true professional and gentleman. He could always be counted on to do an excellent job, especially in leadership roles. He had a wonderful sense of humour and enjoyed the fellowship of others. I extend my sincerest condolences to Bev and family. May the many happy memories of David sustain all of you in the coming days. Memories live on. Alistair McGhee
How sad. At the Court House Dave was always such a kind man with a warm smile. So sorry for your loss.
Dear Bev, Please accept my deepest condolences for the loss or your dear husband. I remember him being such a gentle soul. He loved being your gardening partner and soulmate enjoying cottage life in Muskoka and Florida. He is in a better place now. You did a fantastic job caring for him until the end, Bev. Sincerely your friend and neighbor, Michelle Krohn and family
Heartfelt condolences to the entire family during this extremely difficult time. Cherish the great memories and take comfort in the impact he has had on so many people. He will be dearly missed. Blessings.
I was saddened to hear of Dave's passing. I knew Dave when he was a vice principal. and met again when we both worked at the court house. I knew him to be a leader, good listener and friend. My condolences to Bev and family. Your memories of Dave will live on forever in your hearts. Rosanne Wadsworth
I'm heartbroken to hear of Dave's passing. We worked together at the courthouse, I was a registrar and he was a court service officer, a job he did superbly. I was especially grateful for him during complex jury trials when his calm organizational skills kept me sane. Even more importantly Dave was a wonderful person and I will miss our chats, especially about boats.
It was always a PLEASURE for me to work with David, over the years, at the London Courthouse. He was a gentleman, and a true professional, at all times. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
So very sorry for your lost.
My thoughts and prayers are with David's family at this extremely sad time. David and I started our 'second career' at the London Courthouse on the same day back in 2002, Over the years we had many interesting conversations about travels and family. He was a real gentleman, and always set a very professional environment in all court proceedings. Rest in Peace David.
So sorry to hear about Dave, he was very kind, very thoughtful and very great at his job as a court services officer. We had many chats between trials and on breaks and did get to know each other. He had a great sense of humor, of course,outside of court... My thoughts are with the family, I will miss him Mary Storey
I am so sorry to hear about Dave's passing. He was a pleasure to deal with over the past couple years regarding his hot tub and was always such a positive person to talk to. My condolences to Bev & his family.
What a sad loss of one of the most wonderful, kindest, funniest men that I have ever met. Dave made such an impact on everyone that he met. He coached my daughter Kaela with her javelin. I will always remember his kindness and friendship. I will miss him dearly. Sending lots of love to Bev and to Dave's family.
I worked with David at the courthouse for many years. I always enjoyed his company both there and post retirement at our quarterly breakfasts. His upbeat attitude about his disease over the past year has been a help to me. My condolences to Bev and his family.
Dave was the consummate gentleman and professional. His quiet voice and calm demeanour were a source of strength and support during times of stress and tragedy at the Courthouse. I shall always be grateful for the privilege of having known him and worked with him.
Dave is my Mom's first cousin and I am sad to hear of his passing. He always had a kind word for me and supported my pursuits whenever we had the occasion to get together. He will be missed. I would like to offer my condolences to Beverly, Heather and Paul and I am proud to call Dave part of my family.
Our deepest condolences to Bev and family. My husband Bill Mattys worked with Bev and I worked with Dave at the courthouse. We were sadden to hear of your loss. Nancy Anderson and Bill Mattys
I am truly sad to hear of Dave's passing. I will always remember his professional way he handled the people that came through the corridors of the London court house, be it as parties, counsel, juries and of course judges for whom he worked for. I am fortunate to have had the pleasure of his kind attention as a presiding judge. My deepest condolences to the family.
I am sad to hear about Dave's passing we worked together as Court Services Officers a few years ago. It was a pleasure to know him, my condolences to his family.
Sincere condolences to Bev, Mary and your families. Dave was always a role model for me at family gatherings so many years ago when we were teenagers. As the oldest cousin he set the tone for conversation, offering help to our hosts, and indicating when it was appropriate for our generation to adjourn to the yard or basement. He continued to live a life where other people mattered, and will be missed.
To dear Heather, Umar, Savannah and your family, I am so very sorry to hear of your sad loss. My sincere condolences to all of you at this sad time. Victoria
I am truly saddened to hear of David's death. He was a graceful, elegant man, the model of discretion and decorum. I was always happy when we worked together. I appreciated his calm presence as well as his dry sense of humour, particularly on difficult days in court. A lovely gentleman. He will be missed.
A consummate gentleman of pervasive intelligence, class and dignity. David was the first Court Services Officer I had the privilege of working with, as he shepherded my family and me through the day of my swearing-in ceremony. He did so with his hallmark calm, grace, kindness and well placed humour, and I thereafter always looked forward to and appreciated the times, before and after his retirement, when the docket or (my) good fortune brought us together. He no doubt will be missed by all who knew him -- but he also leaves behind a wealth of happy and comforting memories.
Dear Bev and family, I was so sad to hear of Dave's passing. He was such a warm and caring person. I so enjoyed working with him at Banting. He was diligent, working always in the best interests of students and colleagues. His charm was leavened with a lovely sense of humour. His passing has come too soon. Rest In Peace, Dave. Graham Brown
It was my pleasure to know Dave during our years with the London Board of Education. His calm and efficient manner combined with a subtle sense of humour was always welcomed. My condolences to Dave's family.
Dear Bev, I am so sad to hear of David's passing.From Medway High School to the back halls at the court house and then to the airport and your porch, I enjoyed Dave's company and exchanging stories.Dave was a serious man but laughed easily and long. He had a great company of friends. My condolences to you and Dave's children. Peter Hockin
Dear Bev and family: we are sad to learn of Dave's passing. We have good memories of him as a very fine colleague, and also from years at the London Curling Club. He was a special man, sensitive and caring, and always considerate of others. Know that our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Dear Chalmers Family And Friends;all my family members are very deeply saddened to hear of the recent passing of a truly fine friend and great humanitarian and grat teacher in our great city of London,Ontario.he learned his career aspirations really well from his great parents Murray and Dorothy we must say as we all worked in unison as members of Elmwood Avenue Presbyterian Church so many years ago these days it seems.A tip of the hat to Davids dad Muray I must say also in greatly assisting a young fella llife myself born with cerebral palsy on June 27,1953 at the Ottawa Civic Hospital help me immemsely with my educational pursuits at the former Kensal Park public School her in London,Ontario and graduating in June 1972 from Westminister Highschool with my grade 12 business diploma and going on to Fanshawe Coledge graduating in May 1975 to start my various careers in the city of London,Ontario.Thanks to all of you okay and may God lead you all forward in the future years to better times in your personal careers and llifesofferings we trust also.Yours SincerelyBrian and Mary Cross,Harry and Darlene TenHaaf and family London,Ontario,Brenda and Doug Martin Scarborough,Ontario,
I had the privilege of working with Dave at the courthouse. Both of us were in our second careers, both of us having been teachers. Dave was impeccable in his work and in his life. I had great pleasure talking with Dave about the boat, how he had owned and sold it amd how it made its way back to him and Bev. His fortitude during his time with cancer was remarkable, and equally remarkable was that of Bev. They simply forged ahead, with a positive attitude. To you Bev, and your family, my sincerest condolences. Don Blay
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I really enjoyed working with Dave at AB Lucas . He was a kind person and a great administrator . I’m sorry for your loss.
~ Kim McHugh