David Kowalchuk

David, known as “Charlie” to his friends and co-workers was born February 5, 1939 in a log cabin on the family farm to Paul and Mary (Yuristy) Kowalchuk at Homefield, Saskatchewan. He was the eldest of six children with four younger brothers; Mervin, Paul, Jerry and Jim, and a sister Cindy. David attended a country school in the Beaver Hills district where he completed grade 9. At 14 years old he started working for the Saskatchewan Department of Highways. In 1968, David went to work at Duval Potash Mine, later known as Cory Potash Mine. In 1988 he began working for Tyson Mining in Esterhazy, Saskatchewan where he remained until retiring in 1997.

On July 11, 1964 David married Shirley Temple of Saltcoats, Saskatchewan. They had celebrated their 62^nd wedding anniversary just a week before his passing. Together, they raised three daughters; Pam, Trudy, and Teresa. After moving to Saskatoon in 1965, they made their home there for 27 years before eventually settling in Edmonton, Alberta. David was a proud Gido to Acacia, Kayleigh, and Brooklyn, as well as a Great Gido to Jameson and Spencer.

David enjoyed spending time with family and friends, especially at the cabin at Wakaw Lake. He travelled throughout Canada, the United States, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and one memorable trip to Scotland. David found happiness in the simple things. He enjoyed umping ball games, fishing, watching football and curling, reading non-fiction books, discussing politics, keeping a close eye on his money, talking about the good old days, and spending more than 20 years helping cousin Johnny on his farm. David said, “I like harvest! It is the best time of year.”

On July 19, 2026 at the age of 87 years David passed away peacefully in the presence of his family, at Benevolence Care Home in Edmonton Alberta, due to dementia related complications.

David is predeceased by his parents Paul and Mary (Yuristy) Kowalchuk; brothers Mervin, Jerry, and Jim; in-laws Peter and Barbara Temple; brothers-in-law Donald, George, and Vern Temple; sister-in-law Sandra Temple.

David leaves to mourn and cherish his memory his wife Shirley; daughters Pam (Keith), Trudy (Kerry), and Teresa; grandchildren Acacia (Mike), Kayleigh (Kyle), and Brooklyn (Perry); great grandsons Jameson and Spencer; brother Paul (Phyllis) Kowalchuk; sister Cindy (Allan) Yanko; sister-in-law Debra Kowalchuk, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Rest peacefully, David! You will be missed and fondly remembered by everyone who had the privilege of knowing you.