“A 27 year old man killed in a pedestrian fatality was a prominent artist in Edmonton’s punk music scene.”
The headlines and news stories tell of a punk musician, a DJ for CJSR, and a creative influence in Edmonton. However, I knew a different side of David Finkelman and this is my goodbye to him….
I met Dave when he interviewed for a job at my child care centre. He was quiet, gentle, and eager, yet a humble confidence exuded from him. I immediately knew he would be a good fit for our team.
Within a few short months of hiring Dave, I went on maternity leave. It was when I returned ten months later that I really got to know him.
I could immediately see that the children loved Dave and that he adored them. I would often walk into the playroom and see him wearing a too-small fire hat or see a child clinging to his ankles. He would not shy away from putting pony tails into a three-year-old’s hair and would colour, play, and read with the children.
I can picture Dave, walking through the centre door… black jacket and black jeans, t-shirt, black boots, and a backpack slung over his shoulder. I can hear his voice and his laugh. From his witty banter, to his goofy dances in the centre’s kitchen… he could make anyone smile.
Dave was an active participant in our program and would passionately advocate for those who could not speak up for themselves. He was eager to learn and was a valued member of our team. My husband and Dave also became good friends while working alongside each other at the centre.
I left the childcare program about eight months later. We kept in contact through Facebook and my husband would occasionally meet up with Dave to chat and enjoy a cup of coffee. We were privileged to watch Dave transition from his child care job to a time in which he intensely pursued his musical career. We also had the pleasure to witness him bridge into his studies at the University of Alberta. Even though our visits were too far in between, my husband and I felt Dave was just an arm’s reach away, as we would occasionally tune into Dave’s CJSR radio show, Big A, Little a.
This past Saturday we listened to the two hour radio tribute in honour of Dave’s memory. It was an emotional listen but we got to hear clips of Dave’s voice. Although it made the past week seem almost surreal, it was comforting to hear Dave talk about the music he was so passionate about, to hear stories of his silly antics, and to hear him laugh one last time.
On Sunday we sat shoulder to shoulder with so many others whose lives were touched by Dave. We cried while we remembered and celebrated the life of this remarkable young man. Even though I haven’t personally seen Dave in about three years, the news of his death was devastating and the loss I feel has no words. Our childcare program was very much like a family and I love Dave like a brother.
Unfortunately, this has to be my goodbye. Words, spaces, commas, periods, and paragraphs. It pales in comparison to all I wish I could say and do. I long to have an opportunity to hug Dave and tell him how much I love and value his passion, creativity, humour, and friendship. He will be greatly missed. I pray that this hole in my heart will someday be filled with joyful memories of a beautiful spirit.
Goodbye Dave. We love you and we will miss you.
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I am so sorry for your loss. It is so hard to lose someone, and even more so when it was a life taken far too soon.
so sorry to read of the loss of your friend. It’s always particularly sad when people are taken unexpectedly. I’m sending prayers for you, for peace of mind. Also for the family. Every death is a reminder that this life is so temporary.
He sounds like an amazing person. I’m so sorry his life was cut short. This was a very nice tribute to him and a good way to say goodbye to your dear friend. Will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
This is beautiful, Jennifer. Just beautiful.
Dave sounds like an incredible person with a wide range of talents and personality traits. I’m happy to know that there was a radio tribute in his honor- that isn’t something that happens for just anyone. I think it speaks volumes on who he was as a person and the impact he had on the lives of so many. What an awful and terrible tragedy. Again, I am so sorry for your loss and all those left behind. May your memories live strong and never fade. Though it doesn’t feel like it, your goodbye was enough Jennifer; and it was beautiful.
What a tragic end to such a bright light in our world. I’m saddened to hear this Jennifer, what a beautiful tribute you’ve given him. xo
This is so crushing. So sorry.
Dave sounds like a wonderful young man and I always wonder why the good die young. It just doesn’t seem fair. Know that he is in a good place and his memories will forever be with you. That was a great tribute to his life and I’m happy you got to meet him. So sorry for your loss and my hope is that you sorrow will lessen with time.
That was beautiful Jennifer. I can see why you were so sad at his passing. And what a senseless death too…so hard to understand. I know your presence at his service was a balm to his family, and a testament to how many lives he touched.
He sounds like a wonderful, self-aware person. Aren’t they the most endearing of people?
God bless your healing path my friend. And God bless his soul.
Ceil
What a beautiful tribute. So sorry for your loss!
I’ve been thinking about you since you first said you lost a friend. It sounds like he was an amazing person Jennifer. I’m so sorry you’re hurting right now. I pray that your memories will fill your heart and give you peace. Losing someone never gets easier.
Thinking of you.
xoxo
What a beautiful and amazing story of your friend. I am so sorry for your loss. He sounds like someone that everyone who knew will miss so much. I feel like I was able to get to know him a tiny bit through your words.
I am so very sorry for you loss. Dave sounds like he was an incredible person to know.
Oh my. So this is why you didn’t post a picture last week : ( I’m so sorry for your loss. David sounds like an incredible person.
So sorry for your loss, Jennifer.
May you have beauty for your ashes and the oil of gladness in place of mourning.
If Dave indeed touched a few hearts through his work, his program, his laughter, his words, etc…then he must have lived an impactful life.