Slideshow from Dad's memorial service

The memorial service for Dad last Saturday January 24 went pretty smoothly. We believe Dad would have been pleased that so many old friends and colleagues attended. There were a lot of people there who we hadn't seen in at least 10 years.

Gareth went through a lot of old photographs and created this slide show which was broadcast at the start of the service:

Quite a few other people couldn't make it on the 24th, but they sent in some nice cards and email messages or called on the phone offering their condolences. The family appreciates your kindness.

We were also touched by all the kind things so many of the guests said about Dad. He was well liked by a lot of people. I guess we knew that but it was still comforting to hear the same sentiments from so many. "Kind and gentle." "Polite, generous." "A real gentleman." He was like that with his friends and coworkers. It makes sense to think of him as "a gentle man"-- he had a likeable manner that was born out of a different generation, a time when people thought and acted much differently. I guess people like him are more of a rare breed nowadays.

We love you and miss you Dad. Thanks for sharing life's journey with us. You were very special.

Edwin David Lane Morgan: February 5, 1935 ~ January 7, 2009

Edwin David Lane Morgan

February 5, 1935 ~ January 7, 2009

[Obituary from the Calgary Herald]

David Morgan passed away at the Foothills Hospital on January 7, 2009 with his family at his side. David is survived by his wife Janet, daughter Jane, son Gareth, daughter-in-law Vivian and granddaughter Fiona.

David was born in Surrey, England, and led a colourful life. He spent most of his childhood in London, except when his family escaped to rural Wales during the German bombings of 1940-41. From a young age David was a keen sportsman. He excelled in boxing, football and cricket, and was a valuable player for several teams. In his youth he developed a love for jazz music, and was lucky enough to see many future legends performing at famous clubs in the city.



After technical college he completed his military service in the RAF as a flight technician, and later began a career as a piping designer in the oil business. David met Janet at a cricket match, and they married in 1967. David became a successful football referee, officiating semi-professional matches in the London area with up to 5000 spectators.

David’s work allowed him to explore many countries in the Middle East and elsewhere across the globe. From 1978-80 the family lived in Norway, and shared some wonderful moments camping, skiing and hiking. In January 1981 they moved to Canada and began a new life in Calgary. David continued his work in the oil business and became active in the local football-refereeing scene, later becoming a referee instructor and assessor.

Uncertain economic times over the years meant more travel, and his work opportunities led him to Vancouver, Ottawa, Montreal, St. Johns, Fort McMurray, Boston, Houston, back to England, and as far away as Jakarta, Indonesia. His strong work ethic and professional skills were widely respected, and in recent years he enjoyed no shortage of job offers.

David had a warm sense of humour and made friends wherever he went. His gentle nature and kind personality will be missed by many. A memorial service will be held for David on Saturday, January 24th at 2 pm at Leyden’s Funeral Home, 304 18th Ave SW Calgary.