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Philip Stewart posted a condolence
Friday, July 19, 2024
I was very sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. He was my drum teacher in 1989. I learned much from him and valued his advice. The last time I saw him we were both competing ( different age groups) in the Just Drums player challenge in Toronto. He was a legend of Canadian music and drums and I’m glad I had the chance to know him.
Condolences to all his family and friends.
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Susan Marsh was Bedard posted a condolence
Saturday, January 6, 2024
I remember as a little girl growing up on Beech St in Halifax that my brother Johns best friend was David James. They. Used to get into all kinds of trouble together. Our parents were really good friends as well and they played bridge together.I remember when Jennifer and Ruth were born and I always wished that one of them was my sister. It’s hard to believe that David is gone. I am very proud to have had David and the whole family in my life.I am turning seventy in a couple of weeks and my kids r having a little get together for me and I am happy to say that David’s brother John is coming.
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Debbie Addison-Brawn uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, September 27, 2023
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David in 1983 in the Beaches, Toronto as our best man - Danny & Debbie Brawn
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Debbie Addison-Brawn posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 26, 2023
Oh no so terribly sad to have lost this great talent and gentle kind soul! Deepest sympathies to his family! We had met Ruth aka David in a dress and Arthur previously in Toronto many years ago My recently passed husband had met David at Humber many years ago and he was an important part of the start of our story together! We had some fun times & laughs in those early years but drifted apart after he returned to his beloved roots! I remember one time he was really unhappy with me when I decided to surprise him by shining up his cymbals with Brasso just before a showcase where he was to play Apparently the dirt did something to affect the sound and he wasn’t happy at all to see those nicely polished cymbals. We thought of him fondly over the years and were honoured to have him be the best man at our wedding 40 years ago in Toronto! RIP old friend hope you and Danny still playing some music together!
Debbie Addison-Brawn ( wife of late Danny Brawn)
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Ryan Wozniak posted a condolence
Friday, May 5, 2023
When I was 10 years old, David lived with us for a short while. He was close friends with my father, Moe Wozniak, who was also a very talented musician. I did not know David in my adult years, but I will always remember him as an ebullient, gregarious and welcoming person. He used to take me in the backyard and teach me how to box, gloves and all. Not surprisingly, he had quick hands. He was good at giving a young boy confidence. May he rest in peace.
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Steve Simmons posted a condolence
Saturday, February 11, 2023
Mr James was a teacher of mine at Crescent, a hockey coach too I think. I also love the music and Maple Leafs. Mr James and Mr Wood were the coolest, they always opened up the music room for me to jam with buddies. I had tried to look him up recently just to say hi and let him know that my band had a song used on degrassi. Very sorry to hear that he’s gone, sending you all my condolences.
Cheers
Steve Simmons
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Rafael Wagner posted a condolence
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
As a truly special teacher and mentor to me at Crescent school, Dave left a valuable, indelible mark. His incredible musical talent was only matched by his big, most caring heart. My deep condolences to David's family.
Raf Wagner
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John Cunningham posted a condolence
Sunday, June 26, 2022
I had the good fortune to play David’s composition The Jazz Assassin at Acadian University Band Camp 1998.
What drummer’s dream- lots of fills capped with an ending only David James would write: “Tune ends when drummer stops.”
All these years later, I can’t stop thinking what a great TV police or spy drama theme that chart would make. If anyone knows writers or producers in the business, do point it out.
What a great week of music from a percussion teacher who could find music and rhythm everywhere he moved about campus.
John Cunningham, Mahone Bay Legion Swing Band.
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Robert Salsman posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 21, 2022
So sad to hear of Dave's passing. I remember well as a neighborhood kid marvelling at the drumming emanating from the top floor of the James home on Bloomingdale Terrace. I later took drum lessons from him in the basement of Sir Charles Tupper school. And now, somehow, I too am a drummer, and it's about my favourite thing in life. Thanks Dave. May you keep drumming forever.
Rob Salsman
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Robert Salsman posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 21, 2022
So sad to hear of Dave's passing. I remember well as a neighborhood kid marvelling at the drumming emanating from the top floor of the James home on Bloomingdale Terrace. I later took drum lessons from him in the basement of Sir Charles Tupper school. And now, somehow, I too am a drummer, and it's about my favourite thing in life. Thanks Dave. May you keep drumming forever.
Rob Salsman
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Bonnie Brenan posted a condolence
Monday, June 13, 2022
David was one of a kind......never to be forgotten. Love from Irene Cordier
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David Wood Posted Jun 19, 2022 at 8:06 AM
David and I became best buddies from 1988 to present day … I was fortunate enough to have his “ above the bar “ performance and musical input skills bless my many recording sessions over a 5 year period… as well as his cherished friendship and down to Earth humanism and character humour over all those years …. RIP Dave … I shall never forget the multiple great times we shared together … the forthcoming CD is dedicated to the memory of Dave …
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Bob Blane posted a condolence
Saturday, June 11, 2022
My condolences to the James family on David’s passing. In 1971 he was a student in one of my QEH classes. He was a good student but an even better entertainer. Most days he would perform a drum roll and ask whether I liked it. Little did I know that he would become a famous Canadian in the music world.
Bob Blane
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Sharon Fiske Posted Jun 13, 2022 at 11:17 PM
Hello Bob! ! Sharon Fiske here ! I have been wondering about you. Of course you know you are our person we respected and looked up to. You kept us in line and I know David loved you !! Narbo was a term of endearment in every sense of the word !! Where David came up with these words or Nick names is and always will be beyond my thought process !! I stayed with him in life and spirit. We often brought up your name. You were our guidance . And we thank you for that !
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Cynthia and Jamie Gatti posted a condolence
Saturday, June 11, 2022
Our deepest condolences on Dave's passing. We had a special bond musically and as friends. He influenced so many people by sharing his knowledge and experiences. We will miss him! Our love to the family.
Cynthia and Jamie Gatti
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Gabrielle Sullivan lit a candle
Friday, June 10, 2022
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Back in the 70s we were given the great opportunity to be in a great music program . I remember David and John Alphonse battling it out after the Senior Jazz Band played at the end of a long night in competition in our own bands, it was riveting. I always remember his amazing talent back then and forever and I have always said he was best.
I also believe my brother was instructed by David at The Grammar School and now my own son plays the drums.
My heart felt condolences to his family and friends
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George James posted a condolence
Friday, June 10, 2022
So sorry to hear about David. Condolences to the James Family, we made a donation to his musical trust.
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Jeff Billard posted a condolence
Friday, June 10, 2022
So sorry to hear about Dave's passing. Aunt Lillian, cousins, and rest of family: you're in my thoughts, and I hope the fond memories of Dave help you through this terrible time.
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Veronica Teed posted a condolence
Thursday, June 9, 2022
Dear Lillian and family. Just read the news of Dave’s passing. You never told me he was an accomplished musician. I spoke to him many times at The Prestwick. My prayers and sincere condolences to you at this sad time. Hugs from Veronica and Gary Teed.
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Nick Koussoulis posted a condolence
Thursday, June 9, 2022
One of the kindest human beings I’ve ever known. I still remember him stepping up and protecting me from bullying in elementary school. Since that time we formed a bond where David would jokingly call me Joanna ( my sister’s name) and I would call him Jennifer. My sincere condolences to David’s family. So long “Jennifer”
Nick Koussoulis
Toronto
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Corinne Ware posted a condolence
Thursday, June 9, 2022
Dear Lillian and family,
condolences from Reg and Corinne in the death of dear David.
Thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. David made quite a hit with his life
and brought great joy with his music. His memory will always be there to sustain you all.
Love Corinne and Reg Ware
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Gene Frampton posted a condolence
Thursday, June 9, 2022
I was greatly saddened to hear of Dave’s death. My heart goes out to each and everyone of his family members and closest friends.
I knew Dave mostly through my son, who he taught and mentored with tremendous skill and commitment.
When I think of Dave I am reminded of the phrase “raise high the roof beam carpenters.” My understanding of this phrase is that it is intended to call our attention to the fact that we are in the presence of a person of exemplary courage and spirit.
J.D. Salinger used the phrase as a title for a short novella he wrote back in 1955. Salinger himself had borrowed the phrase from a verse that the ancient Greek poet Sappho had written that finished with the words …… “taller far than a tall man.”
To me and I gather many others, Dave was such a man, and will forever remain so in our memories.
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Raef Wilson posted a condolence
Thursday, June 9, 2022
I had the great honour to play in various bands with Dave over the years. He was such a force of nature on the tubs, driving the band to greater heights than they may have thought possible. Whenever I had the chance to talk with him we would talk of music, sports, family, travels, whatever came up. He was truly interested in what was happening in your life. My wife Valerie and Dave hit it off and she too was drawn in to deep conversations together. The one thing I will always remember of Dave was his laugh! My goodness he loved to laugh. I wish I had known him as a young man because I think we would have been such good buddies. Dave you will and are missed. Rest in peace my friend.
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Debbie Ellis posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 8, 2022
Lillian,John, Jennifer, Ruthie and families:
We were so sorry to hear of David’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all as you go through this difficult time.
Our deepest condolences Wayne and Debbie Ellis
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Clary Croft posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 8, 2022
A remarkable musician. He brought such taste and nuance to his playing.
Clary Croft
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Bernie Conrad posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 8, 2022
Dear James Family: I was one of Dave's English teachers at QEH and remember him as a very talented, caring person. I was proud to have had a moment in his life and send my heart felt condolences to you, his family. Cherish the memories, they will be a comfort at this time.
Bernie Conrad
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Robbie Rox lit a candle
Wednesday, June 8, 2022
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I am so sorry and sad to hear of Dave's passing over the past week. He was a great talent but most of all a fabulous human being with a huge heart. My thoughts are with Dave's immediate family. RIP my dear ole friend and save me a place in heaven. Robbie Rox
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The family of David Francis James uploaded a photo
Wednesday, June 8, 2022
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David Surrette posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 8, 2022
My deepest condolences to the James family. I have many memories fond of both David and John sailing at the Hubbards Yacht Club.
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Ruth Duggan posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 8, 2022
My deepest sympathies to the James family - I have fond memories of spending time with Dave many years ago. Truly a gentle heart.
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Tom Roach posted a condolence
Wednesday, June 8, 2022
Ruth, John, and family, please accept my deepest condolences. Dave was truly larger than life in so many ways, his drumming was as inspirational as his humour and wit were quick. It was my great privilege to have known him.
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Bernie Bagnell lit a candle
Wednesday, June 8, 2022
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Our thoughts and prayers go out to the James family and their families. Dave was a wonderful guy with such a warm heart.
He will be surely be missed but thank goodness we have fond memories of him.
Bernie & Donnie
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Judy MacKay posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 7, 2022
So very sorry to hear of Dave's passing. Sympathy and condolences to Lill, Jennifer, Ruth and all of Dave's family. Thoughts are with you.
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Bernie Bagnell posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 7, 2022
Our condolences go out to the James family and their families. Dave was a wonderful guy inside and out. He will be surely missed.
We loved him dearly
Bernie & Donnie
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Wayne Baker posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 7, 2022
Condolence from Wayne and Virginia Baker. Very sorry to hear that David has passed on.
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Lisa Belliveau posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 7, 2022
Sorry for your loss. Words are never enough, but we have fond memories of David in Hubbards. From Lisa Belliveau and Lynn Neave.
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The family of David Francis James uploaded a photo
Tuesday, June 7, 2022
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Pam Hanson posted a condolence
Tuesday, June 7, 2022
My heartfelt condolences to the family and a special hug to mom, Lillian, who was on our bowling league. Dave would pop by and try to sneak pictures of her while she was bowling.
One of my first memories of Dave was from the Halifax Waterfront where a table was set with glasses holding varying amounts of water. Dave "played" those glasses like a fine set of drums. Rest in Peace my friend. You will be missed.
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The family of David Francis James uploaded a photo
Tuesday, June 7, 2022
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The family of David Francis James uploaded a photo
Tuesday, June 7, 2022
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The family of David Francis James uploaded a photo
Monday, June 6, 2022
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