One of the Most Moving Sights
As many of you know, there were several stirring images in the days following Dave's passing.
The long line-ups for his wake, for example. Two thousand people came by and according to the funeral home staff that's a number normally associated with dignitaries. Their staff had to direct traffic on Baseline Road and regrettably turn some people away. And at his funeral, big ole St. Georges Church was filled to capacity with standing room only.
But the most memorable sight occured two days after Dave's passing. His staff were welcomed that morning by dozens of yellow bows hanging all around the Gladstone Avenue property tied to fences, walls, and poles. The bows were made of 'Police Line: Do Not Cross' tape and in some cases were placed 10 feet up on the side of the building.
No one knows who put this moving tribute to Dave together so quickly. We suspect it was some of the young police officers who used to just drop by for coffee with him. One of their senior officers would suggest to new recruits that they go go by to introduce themselves to Dave, and get to know him as a fine example of an Ottawa small businessman.
You gentleman -- the senior officer and the young policemen -- know who you are. You must also know that Dave's family and friends were deeply moved by your kind gesture. The image of those bows will be with us always.
posted by Mark Jodoin at 1:58 PM
