18 Sept 1976 – 26 Dec 2024 (49)
1 & 3 PPCLI
Lovingly Remembered
It is with deep sadness that we share the sudden passing of David Arthur Peabody (September 18, 1976 – December 26, 2024). He is survived by his wife Angela Tse, daughter Emily Peabody, his mother Barbara O’Neil, his father Graham Peabody, brother Michael Peabody, sister-in-law Sara Peabody, nieces Myla and Ellie Peabody, and many loving and heartbroken aunts, uncles and cousins. He was a devoted husband, loving son, caring father, supportive brother, and loyal friend.
David served his country honorably in the Canadian Armed Forces, and was a steadfast comrade-in-arms to the soldiers and reservists who served with him. He began as an officer with the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry. He later continued his service as a reservist Major with The Calgary Highlanders Regiment. His commitment to preserving military history was evident in his role as Director of the Military Museums, Western Canada’s largest tri-service military history, heritage, art, research and educational institution. A museum visitor today would see he also championed diversity and inclusion.
He earned a Bachelor of Art’s degree, majoring in history, from the University of New Brunswick in 1999, graduating on the Dean’s List. He then moved to Japan to teach English and immerse himself in Japanese culture. Upon returning to Canada, and fluent in Japanese, David pursued a Master’s degree in Military and Strategic Studies at the University of Calgary, completing it in 2005. He served in Afghanistan as a PPCLI captain and platoon leader from 2011 to 2012.
David was an avid climber, scaling hundreds of routes across Canada, New Zealand, Japan, Spain, Italy, France, Austria, Cuba, Greece, Mexico, and beyond. Among his most notable achievements was a first ascent of Corner Story on Mt. Robertson with Alik Berg. He also completed an impressive ascent of the McIntyre/Colton route on the north face of Grande Jorasses, one of his proudest moments.
Beyond personal accomplishments, David was dedicated to the broader climbing community. He retro bolted lost routes and established new mixed climbing lines with a focus on safety and adventure. When interviewed about his climb on Mount Mike—named after an Indigenous soldier, Private Sebastian Mike—he remarked: “Climbing the mountain bearing his name was the smallest of tributes. But the connections that emerged reveal the power of history to continue to affect the living.” This statement captures David’s vision of honouring the past while inspiring the future.
Music was another of David’s passions, particularly heavy metal. He enjoyed playing guitar and loved diving into the intricate histories behind the songs he treasured. He collected records from a wide array of artists and eras. Those who knew him best fondly recall being invited to sit down and learn about the many layers of a single song. The discussion sometimes lasted for hours!
Above all, David was a wonderful father and so proud of Emily. Whether they were playing video games, exploring the Ghost Wilderness, staging “Wrestle Mania” on the bed, or embarking on Dungeons & Dragons campaigns, he reveled in making her laugh and showing her life’s playful and goofy side.
David lived with integrity, authenticity, humility, and a quiet confidence. He never lost sight of what truly mattered: family, friendship, hard work, service to the community, and a good dose of pop culture memes. His legacy shines in the lasting impact he had on all those he touched. David inspired us to feel part of something larger than ourselves.
He will forever be remembered for his passion, generosity, and dedication to living life fully. A celebration of David’s life will be held on January 25, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at the Mewata Armory. A reception will follow at Eden Brook Funeral Home from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Casual dress is encouraged for the reception. Please bring your favourite stories of Dave to share.
https://www.arbormemorial.ca/en/edenbrook/obituaries/david-arthur-peabody/135133.html
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