David Alan Mahon passed away April 25, 2024, after a courageous and gritty battle with cancer. Dave is survived by his wife Christina James and her sons Evan and Rheis, his children Kate (Brendan) Mahon, and James Rice, children of Dave and Sherry’s, Meaghan Cormack (Andy) and Joe (Hannah) Mahon, children of Dave and Cheryl’s, grandchildren Lily, Tyler, Isla, Jackson (Jax), Stella, and Davie, siblings Dale (Denise) Mahon, Ellen (Neil) Fernandes and Gail Mahon, who was the only sibling smart enough not to get married at 18. Dave was a beloved uncle to many nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews. Dave’s in-laws were not out-laws and Christie’s family loved him very much. Dave was predeceased by his parents, Dale and Esther.
Dave was born in Toronto, but his spirit belonged to Ireland. His great, great grandparents immigrated from the homeland in the mid-1800’s due to the potato famine. Dave reconnected with his Irish roots through his friend and Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) co-worker, John Cochrane. Dave made many trips to the homeland and was passionate about politics including “freeing the wee north”.
Dave had two professions, a transit operator and a funeral home director, serving the communities of Toronto and Calgary. He was great at his job and his employment provided many great stories and even better friends. Dave had a fantastic sense of humour, although somewhat warped by some standards. He loved to tease people like his father did and provide nicknames.
Sports were a big part of Dave’s life and he often said he had a “love of the hockey”. Dave started hockey as a goalie but to take advantage of his feistiness and size was moved to defense. He played with Scarborough, East York and TTC men’s league and refereed many games. Many people referred to Dave as Boomer, a name he received after he knocked out his teammate’s front teeth when the opposing player ducked.
Dave (AKA Wandering Willie) never sat still because there was always a game to go to. If there was a sports game within three provinces, Dave was going, even in his final weeks. There were many road trips where classics were played, Dave singing out loud, loving life and loving music. When Dave retired from Calgary Transit in 2021, he and Christie moved to Regina to make going to sport events easier. Dave enjoyed all sports, but his favorite teams included the Leafs, the Buffalo Bills, and Riders, as well as the Argos, Blue Jays, Portland Winterhawks, Moose Jaw Warriors and Calgary Hitmen. Dave shared his love for sports with his kids and grandkids and converted his Calgary born wife into a sport enthusiast and Riders fan. Watching NHL games became even more exciting for Dave as his son Joe transitioned from playing in the Western Hockey League to starting a career with the NHL as a linesman in 2022.
When Dave and Christie found each other, they became inseparable. They were best friends and complimented each other in every way. Dave would grow out his beard around Christmas and he and Christie became the best Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus ever. They volunteered their time bringing joy to others and loved becoming grandparents, where Dave also became “Irish Santa”. They really enjoyed the new friends they made in their condo building and were so thankful that Dave could spend his final days in their home, surrounded by loved ones.
Christie would like to thank the Palliative Care and medical team who supported Dave through his illness and family and friends for their on-going support. At Dave’s request, there will be no formal service, but friends and family are encouraged to raise a glass in honour of Dave. Slálinte (cheers)!