It is with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, Dad, Papa, and cherished friend, David James Vincent Howells, on September 30, 2025. Dave was a pillar of our family and community, and his loss will be profoundly felt.
Born on August 19, 1952, in Montreal to Dilys and Winston David Howells, Dave grew up in Burnaby and later moved to Victoria with his parents and brother, Geoffrey (Sandi) Howells, in the late 1960s. At just 15, he joined the Racket Club, where he made many friendships, and later became a proud member of Uplands Golf Club. Dave attended Oak Bay High School, graduating in 1970. He went on to attend the University of Victoria, where he met the love of his life, Brenda Davison, at the Sub Pub on campus. During this time, Dave also met many of his lifelong friends, people he cherished deeply and remained close to throughout his life.
Dave had a short university career, majoring in beers and bridge, where he earned his infamous nickname “Hooter.” He was then offered a job by one of his greatest mentors, Tut Jones, at Victoria Paving Company, which kickstarted his 50-year career in the paving industry. In 1987, he and his partners founded Capital City Paving Ltd. The continued success of CCP is one of Dave’s proudest accomplishments and remains a strong family-run business to this day.
Dave was a visionary and dedicated leader whose impact on the road construction industry is immeasurable. A trusted mentor, he was always willing to lend an ear to anyone who needed it. Dave saw the good in people and was always ready to pay it forward, supporting and encouraging others to pursue their goals and dreams. He had an incredible impact on the lives of many in the Victoria business community, and mentorship was a deeply meaningful part of his life.
No matter his many successes, Dave’s true joy and deepest pride was always his family. In 1975, Dave and Brenda married and recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. Together they welcomed five children: Leigha (Darryl), Trevor (Emily), Kip (Karli), Brandon (Olivia), and Chelsea (Ryan). Dave was also incredibly proud of his eight grandbabies: Isla, Ryder, Michael, Jaxson, Kohen, Linden, Malcolm, and Brooklyn. Dave also loved the dogs in his life: Bella, Hudson, Memphis, Gus, and Ace.
He loved travelling with Brenda, good food, and cheering on his kids and grandkids in all their sporting and life endeavours. If something was happening, Dave was there, front row, smiling, and full of pride. His favourite thing was spending time with his family, stepping back and watching the chaos from a distance. He was our biggest fan, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. We love you all the world Dad.
A celebration of life will be held 2:00pm on December. 2, 2025 at The Victoria Conference Centre – Crystal Garden.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to KidSport BC at www.kidsportcanada.ca/british-columbia.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
