Davis, Christopher Donald – On January 14, 2022, at age 67, Chris’ life journey came to an end at home with the love of his life, Mary, by his side, and surrounded by the love of his family.
Chris is survived by his ever-loving wife of 44 years, Mary F. (Turple) Davis; his children, Angela and her partner, Shrini Modayur; Michael and his partner, Suzanne Shaw; Nicole Thomas and her husband, Jason; and his cherished grandchildren, Daya, Brody, and the twins, T. and W. Chris also leaves behind his mother, Isabell J. (Vermeersch) Davis; sister, Doreen Bailey and Dennis; brothers, Tim, Wayne, Donnie and Gerine, Jerome and Wendy; in-laws, Debbie Etter, Jerry and Sheila, Jamie and Libby, John and Brenda, Joey, Tony and Indira; nieces and nephews, Vicky, Drue, Holly, Tina, Daniel, Justin, Joshua, Jacqueline, Stephanie, Jenny, Jessie, Joshua, Skyler, Isabella, Arianna, Liam, Isabell and Aleece; as well as many great-nieces and nephews; friends, both old and new; and chosen family, Jim and Liz.
Chris was predeceased by his father, Donald M. Davis; a brother in infancy; mother-in-law, Mabel L. (Rutherford) Turple; father-in-law, Ivan C. Turple; brother-in-law, Stephen; and his best buddy, his dog, Patch.
Chris was a carpenter by profession who built not only buildings, but a wonderful life he loved. His happy place was in Ecum Secum at the campage, which he rebuilt as a labor of love, creating a place for his family and friends to gather and enjoy time together by the ocean. Chris’ greatest joy came from the joy of others, especially children. He was fondly known as “Grandad” to his grandchildren who were the light of his life and whom he loved to pieces. Chris was known to say “he was living with cancer” and for 27 years he did just that, living his life to the fullest. He appreciated the simple things in life, a cold beer and good conversation, throwing the ball for his beloved dog, Blu, going out fishing in his boat, homemade cookies, family dinners, a power snooze with his grandchildren playing around him, a beautiful sunset, or being out on the ocean. If you couldn’t find him enjoying one of those many things, he could be found driving his bright red truck or under a table playing make believe with the kids.
Chris loved discovering new places, meeting new people, and connecting to history. The trip of his lifetime was one he made across Canada with Mary and Michael, getting to meet many of his kinfolk, seeing the sights, and making memories along the way. Chris and Mary also travelled to Arizona together, and he always said “If you can’t go to the moon, go to Arizona!” Chris was a man of great wisdom, teaching many people many things. His work ethic was like none other, and the quality of his work was well known. A close friend said “I am sure everything Chris built is still standing.” This is true not only of the physical things he constructed, but also the legacy he built that will forever live on in the hearts and lives of all who knew him. Chris had an incredible ability to connect with people, to make people feel welcome, seen and valued. Chris had many friends he met along the way, some lifelong, others new, who meant so very much to him. He was the “Canadian dad” to four international students, Marcella, Doro, Julienne and Becky, and enjoyed showing them the beauty of Nova Scotia. Family was one of Chris’ greatest joys; his wife, children, and grandchildren adored him and all the lessons learned, memories made, and love shared, will forever be a part of each of us. He will be missed more than words can even try to say.
A special thank you is sent to Dr. Helika Adams, Dr. Robyn Macfarlane, and all his medical team over the years for the compassionate care you provided.
In memory of Chris, donations may be made to The Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada, or in the spirit of Chris, take the time to make a new friend or show kindness to a stranger.
A private family service will take place in Middle Stewiacke Cemetery. A Celebration of Chris’ Life will take place later in 2022.
Arrangements are under the direction of Arimathea Funeral Cooperative, Upper Musquodoboit.
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