Obituary of David Gowling

January 16, 1967 – March 30, 2025 David “Dave” Delmer Gowling, age, 58, a one-of-a-kind husband, dad, brother, uncle, son and friend passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on March 30, 2025, after living with cancer for 6-years. His passing leaves a profound void in the lives of those who knew and loved him. Dave is lovingly remembered by his wife of nearly 31 years, Michelle Gowling (nee Menhennet), and their daughters, Laura and Alannah. He also leaves behind his beloved dogs Riley and Finlay who brought him great joy and companionship. David was a devoted son to Fred and Marilyn, and a cherished brother to Amy Gowling (Max Brett), Bill Gowling and Jeremy Gowling. He will be fondly remembered by his brother and sister-in-law, Mark and Rhonda Menhennet; niece Esme Brett; and nephews Jack Menhennet and Ethan Hillier, along with many other loving family members and friends. David was predeceased by his in-laws Carole and Jack Menhennet – who we know have greeted him with open arms. A proud graduate of Glendale Secondary School (1982–1986), David went on to earn a Bachelor of Business Administration from Wilfrid Laurier University in 1990. He became a Chartered Accountant and later a Licensed Insolvency Trustee (LIT). David began his professional journey at PriceWaterhouse in 1986 where he spent 6 years. He then moved on to start his firm Herpers Chagani Gowling Inc. in 1996. His dedication and leadership helped guide the firm through a successful merger with MNP Ltd., where he continued to serve for nearly 15 years. Over his more than three-decade-long career as an LIT, David earned the respect of clients and colleagues alike for his compassion, patience, and unwavering integrity. He had been looking forward to retiring in May 2025, closing a remarkable chapter of service to individuals and businesses navigating financial challenges. Outside of work, David embraced life with warmth and humour. He was known for his kind heart, quick wit, and ability to bring levity to any situation. A passionate golfer, David relished time spent with friends at the Brantford Golf and Country Club and on their annual "Myrlando" golf trips. David also treasured traveling with his family. In recent years, they explored Scandinavia, Portugal, France, Spain, and one of their most beloved destinations, Disney, creating cherished memories along the way. Whether enjoying music, sharing laughter over life’s silliness, or sipping a great glass of wine with loved ones, David found joy in life’s simple pleasures. Deeply committed to giving back to his community, David served on the board of Lansdowne Children’s Centre and was an active member of the Rotary Club of Brantford. His contributions reflected his generous spirit and desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Lansdowne Children’s Centre, Rotary Club of Brantford, or to the Juravinski Cancer Centre through the Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, April 13, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, with speeches from friends at 2:30pm, at the Affinity Conference Centre, located at 30 Fen Ridge Court in Brantford, Ontario. Friends, family, colleagues, and all whose lives were touched by David are invited to come together. David's legacy is one of love—for his family, his friends, his community—and laughter that brightened every room he entered. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him. A tree will be planted in memory of David in the Beckett-Glaves Memorial Forest.