David Dollman tragically lost his battle with alcoholism on August 7, 2021 at the age of 66. We had the opportunity to connect with his daughter, Adreanna, to find out a little more about this dynamic and intelligent man.

“More important than how he died, I think, was how he lived. Dave was the only dad I have ever known since I was a year old, and I have always appreciated that he accepted me as his daughter when he met mom in 1978. My dad and I were movie buddies, fishing partners, and proud organic gardeners before it was cool. He enjoyed teaching me anything new he’d learned. He collected a lot of unique trees and I learned a lot about lumber. It was also very neat that he had a navy Daytona blue 1964 Corvette stingray since dating my mother and kept it throughout the decades, even in the face of financial pressures. It was a very unique car and always a part of my life. I think his dad Walter, aka ‘Speed’, would have been proud.

Our favourite decade was the 80s. We lived in a little oceanfront cabin on the old highway in Qualicum Beach, which is still there to this day. Together, we grew many gardens, preserved many crops, blasted music, and watched sunsets together. Many family visits and fun times were had.”

Dave spent 30 years working at the Western Forest Products mill, commuting for over an hour each way, working long shifts with damaging shift work for over 30 years.

Dave’s older sister Barb passed away 20 years ago, and his mom, Elbie passed in 2006. Dave is survived by Adreanna, her mother Maureen, his older brother Barry, a niece and a nephew, and a large extended family.

“Always cheeky with a teasing comment and a ready grin, I am, always have been, and always will be proud to call you Dad,” says Adreanna.

In memory of her father, Adreanna is asking her community to consider giving to the Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation in support of mental health and substance use programs at the NRGH and in the community.