David Campbell
December 23, 1935 - November 20, 2021
Through craftsmanship, family devotion, fellowship, and many years of service to the Pavilion of Scotland, David helped keep the traditions of his homeland alive in the community he made his home.
David Campbell was a devoted father, brother, uncle, skilled craftsman, proud Scotsman, and longtime volunteer whose talents and generous spirit became part of Winnipeg’s Scottish community.
Born in Glasgow, Scotland, David learned the specialized craft of making and repairing kilts. After immigrating to Canada in 1954 with his brothers John and Jimmy, he continued using those skills and made kilts for a number of Highland dancers in Winnipeg.
By 1957, the Campbell siblings had reunited in Winnipeg and shared a home on Lansdowne Avenue, affectionately remembered by the family as “the big house.”
David met Catherine “Cathie” Riddoch after settling in Winnipeg, and they married in 1964. Their marriage lasted 54 years and was filled with family, travel, Scottish fellowship, and many shared adventures.
In 1965, David began working as a mail carrier with Canada Post. He remained there for 30 years before retiring on March 11, 1995.
David loved being involved with the Pavilion of Scotland and looked forward to working there each year. Alongside Cathie, who volunteered for more than three decades, he became part of the dedicated community that welcomed visitors and kept Scottish traditions thriving during Folklorama.
His craftsmanship also supported those traditions beyond the Pavilion. The kilts he made and repaired were worn by local dancers, allowing his work to become part of their performances and celebrations of Scottish culture.
David was also a past member of Capitol Lodge No. 136 and valued the fellowship he found within the Masonic community.
He was immensely proud of his son, David Jr., and spoke often of his work with the Sheriff’s Office in Florida and his talent as a bagpiper. David had also served as his son’s hockey team manager and assistant coach at Norberry Community Centre.
Travel brought David and Cathie great happiness. They enjoyed cruises, visits to Florida, and many journeys with the Winnipeg Wandering Wheels RV Club. After Cathie’s passing, David continued travelling and especially treasured a 2019 trip with his niece Hannah to Nashville, Branson, Pigeon Forge, and Graceland.
David passed away at St. Boniface Hospital Palliative Care on November 20, 2021, at the age of 85.