Deborah Leslie David

Deborah Leslie David died suddenly after a long illness on August 27, 2021.  She was born March 27, 1952, in Ottawa, Ontario to Paul and Joan Pawliuk. The eldest of four children, Deborah will be remembered for her kindness and the love she showed to her family and friends.   Deborah was raised with the help of her Granny who she adored.  She graduated from Brookfield High School in Ottawa. During her post secondary education she received the distinguished title of Campus Queen.  She met her first husband, David Collinson in Ottawa. She worked as a flight attendant for Air Canada, which allowed her to continue her love of travelling. Her marriage to David brought them to live in Europe and the Middle East and afforded them extensive travel opportunities.

Deborah met her husband Bob in Courtenay. Bob and Deborah shared in a depth of love that was profoundly special. They traveled the world together; China, Japan, Korea, Alaska, New York, Miami, Ottawa, Quebec, Mexico, Alaska.  In 2020, Deborah suffered a stroke and Bob became her caregiver. She was a cheerful, love-filled person. Even in pain she expressed gratitude and joy for her life. She gave thanks every day. She loved cooking and was an amazing chef.  In the last year, the love they shared grew exponentially.

Deborah had an epiphany. An illuminating discovery or realization. Bob said her revelation was all about love. And indeed, Deborah chose to be more loving. From then on, an extra measure of kindness seemed to characterize her encounters with others.

Deborah found a way to show her care for all her hospital caregivers as ill as she was. When Bob was finally allowed to visit, Deborah asked for her credit card, and that very day she bought pizza for all the workers on her ward. And Bob sensed the feelings already in her heart. In return, his love for her deepened.

There is of course ample evidence that Deborah possessed a caring heart throughout her adult life. The way she fought so hard for the return of her friend’s kidnapped children is only one example of that caring.

Deborah came home from the hospital, and during Covid and their health issues, Deborah and Bob experienced some good times. Their happiness was best expressed at mealtimes when they sat at their dining room table daily over a meal they prepared together. Deborah giving orders. Bob following orders.

But make no mistake, it was not an easy time. Deborah needed a lot of home care, and then she fell while trying to do a good deed, trying to be a good neighbor. Significantly she suffered a severe cut in her leg that seemed incurable. At one point, it required daily visits to the hospital. Deborah would delight in the freedom she had to get on her scooter and ride there independently. But with all her physical stresses and discomfort, Deborah's demeanor didn't change. She had a series of caregivers, some at the hospital and some at home. Deborah embraced them all and was so appreciative of their help. They loved her back.

Deborah is predeceased by her parents.  She is survived by her husband, Bob David, daughter, Stephanie Collinson; brothers Richard (Tracy) and Philip (Janet) Pawliuk;
sister Barbara (Bob) Erlandson; grandchildren Hannah Collinson, Maya Collinson, and Ella Calladine; Bob’s family and numerous nieces and nephews

Deborah loved her Church family.  She devoted her time to numerous causes and charities, especially those involving the well-being of children.
A celebration of life was held by the family. In lieu of flowers and trees donations may be made to the Red Cross in her memory.  A Bench in Deborah's memory will be placed on the Comox Golf Course.  If you wish to share in this memorial please contact Bob David directly.