David Alan McGhee
1965 – 2026

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of David Alan McGhee at home on July 24, 2026, in Rocky Mountain House.

David was born on July 15, 1965, to Betty and Allen in Edmonton, Alta., and spent a few childhood years in St. Albert before moving to Kamloops, British Columbia, in 1976. He lived there until finishing high school and after that he settled in Calgary.

David moved to Alberta in 1985 to pursue his dream of becoming a mechanic at SAIT but his love of cars and automotive started long before that. He began riding motorcycles and dirt bikes as a teenager and rebuilt a 1965 Ford Falcon by the time he was 16. He was always bringing home random vehicles for his family to check out — anything from mopeds to lawn mowers to cars that didn’t run. By the end of his career, David had achieved becoming a 25-year grandmaster technician with GM. 

David married Pam on June 15, 1991. On October 13, 1993, they welcomed their oldest son, David. Ben joined them on June 13, 1995, and Raili completed their family on July 6, 1996. They moved from Calgary to Caroline, Alta., in 1998 where they built their own house. David moved back to Calgary in 2003 to continue his career as a mechanic. Despite living apart, David rarely missed important events from birthdays to band concerts to graduations. He was consistent and always there. He had an infectious smile, a generous heart, and a dry sense of humour shown only to those who knew him best. Later in life, David loved becoming a grandfather and treasured every moment spent with his grandchildren.

Being a mechanic was more than what he did; it was who he was. He found happiness in the garage, surrounded by tools, engines and the familiar challenges that came with every repair. He had a gift and used that gift to help those around him. Being a mechanic was a lifelong passion and is part of the legacy that he leaves behind. 

David is predeceased by his father, Allen Frederick John McGhee, and his grandparents. He will be lovingly remembered by his children: David, Ben, Raili (Ryley); mom, Betty; siblings: Brian, Gary (Marguerite) and Cristine (Mark); grandchildren: Graeme, Fallon and Wren; his niece Marisa and nephew Aidan; and his lifelong friend, Jack.

Donations in David’s honour can be made to the Arthritis National Research Foundation.

Rocky and Sylvan Lake Funeral Homes and Crematorium, your Golden Rule Funeral Homes, entrusted with the arrangements.