In loving memory ~
David John Ree passed away at the Red Deer General Hospital on July 21, 2023. He will be lovingly remembered by his mother, Betty Cruickshank (Rob) of Lacombe; brother, Kevin Ree (Shelly); sisters, Laura Woycenko (Rick), Melanie Donegan (Dave); and nieces Anna, Marta, Jessica, and Sarah; and nephews Riley, Jacob, and Owen; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and his group home staff. He was predeceased by his father, John Ree, of Bentley.
David was born in Bentley, AB, on July 27, 1958. He spent his early childhood on the family farm west of Bentley. David enjoyed farm life and kept his younger brother Kevin on his toes, watching out for him. He attended school at Michener Center in Red Deer during the week and his parents ensured he came home to the farm for weekends and holidays. Dave had a keen eye for farm equipment and could name all the equipment by brand and year. He also enjoyed looking through family photos and was quick to name faces and dates.
As an adult, David lived in group homes throughout central Alberta and spent 3 years in Rosetown, Saskatchewan with his care staff, Dave and Stacey. This is where his love for the Saskatchewan Roughriders grew, as well as his fondness for the cheerleaders. He could often be found riding his 3-wheeled bike around town. David worked at recycling plants through Cosmos in Red Deer, and later in Rosetown, and he was awarded the Al McGuire Award for Transition to Employment in 2011.
Due to health issues, David returned to Red Deer and lived at Duval House, an EPSS-STEP group home, where he enjoyed chatting with staff and watching movies, often accompanied by a Tim Hortons French Vanilla coffee. David's family is grateful for the excellent care he received from his staff and the kindness and care of the staff at Unit 22 Red Deer Regional Hospital.
In lieu of flowers, please contribute to a charity of your choice.
David's Funeral Service and Interment will be held at Grace Lutheran Church and Vig Cemetery, west of Bentley, AB, at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, August 4, followed by coffee and refreshments.
Condolences may be made by visiting www.wilsonsfuneralchapel.ca
Wilson's Funeral Chapel & Crematorium