David William Johnson, age 74, of Halifax, passed away peacefully at the Victoria General Hospital on December 16, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on January 19, 1951, in Halifax, David was the son of the late William and Victoria (Vera) Johnson.

David is lovingly remembered by his wife of 47 years, Helen (née Dudka); his children, Robyn (Jason), Amy (Shawn), and Michael (Emma); his cherished grandchildren, Jacob, Nicholas, Alexander, and Vivienne; and his soon-to-arrive grandson, who he was excited to welcome in February 2026. He is also survived by his sister, Linda Murphy, along with many nieces and nephews.

David worked for the Province of Nova Scotia for 33 years as an auditor before retiring in 2007.

A lifelong Toronto Maple Leafs fan, David proudly wore his loyalty—often quite literally—making up the majority of his wardrobe. He spent a lifetime hoping the Leafs would win the Cup, teaching his children and grandchildren the true meaning of optimism, hope, loyalty and heartbreak. No matter how many times they disappointed him, he never missed a game.

Although his career took him in another direction, David had a deep love for building and home renovations. A self-taught handyman, he learned from library books and hours of watching Bob Vila—though some might say his style leaned more toward Red Green or Tim “The Toolman” Taylor. He was always dreaming up creative (and sometimes questionable) ways to rig things together.

David was a beekeeper, a “skilled” poker player, and even dabbled in stock car racing. He never missed watching an episode of Coronation Street (“It’s not a soap opera, it’s a British Drama”) or Survivor with Helen. He had a passion for history and loved learning about the stories behind people and places.

David was caring, generous and always doing for others. He was known for his gentle, dry sense of humour and well-timed dad jokes, which brought quiet smiles and shared laughter to those around him.

Faith and community were deeply important to David. He was a devoted member of the St. Mark’s Anglican Church congregation, where he faithfully served as Treasurer for many years. Prior to joining St. Mark’s, David and his family were long-time members of St. Andrew’s Anglican Church in Cole Harbour, where he again shared his accounting skills as Treasurer and generously volunteered on numerous projects.

Above all else, David loved his family and was loved by them beyond measure. He was an incredible Dad and a devoted “Grumpy.” His children and grandchildren were his greatest pride and joy, and they were often lovingly recruited into his many hobbies, projects, and wonderfully questionable ideas.

A funeral service will be held on December 29, 2025 at 1pm in St. Mark’s Anglican Church, 5522 Russell Street, Halifax, NS with a reception to follow. A private family burial will take place at a later date. David will be buried with his faithful canine companion Elaine. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in David’s memory to St. Mark’s Food Bank or Autism Nova Scotia.