David Gilchrist

Richard John David Welsford Gilchrist

March 21, 1985 – May 19, 2025

It is with great sadness to announce the passing of David Gilchrist, following a brief and courageous battle against Stage 4 Small Cell Lung Cancer of which he never knew until April 10th. With family, friends and colleagues by his side at Royal Victoria Hospital in Barrie, Ontario, David gracefully crossed to a more peaceful place where pain no longer exists.

Missed deeply by his loving mother Kathleen Gilchrist (Bret Robinson), older brother Darcy Gilchrist (Cara-Dawn), pets Luna, Princess Leia and R2D2.  David is predeceased by father Guy Gilchrist and is fondly remembered by a large number of family, friends and colleagues.  

David grew up in Hillside, a small community outside of Huntsville, Ontario on a horse hobby farm which held many great and  fond memories. David and brother Darcy (along with Darcy's long time friend Ryan), spent years together making great memories chasing each other through the fields, GT snow racing down the driveway, helping dad bail hay, playing in the barns, tending to the horses, camp fires and spending a lot of time outdoors together.

In his 40th year, David was a young man of passion for gaming, sports (Colorado Avalanche, Toronto Blue Jays), music/concerts, collectibles, tattoos, his pets, and his motorbike group. Going on weekly cruises with his bike friends opened up a whole new world of lasting memories, friends, and enjoyment for him. Family truly believes that his bike was his Star Wars speeder bike.

David worked for an online auction company in Barrie, Ontario and in quick time expanded his colleagues as a complete work family. He was extremely proud of the accomplishments he achieved in this career, the quality of work that he adhered to, and the goals that he was working towards. He enjoyed seeing everyone have fun and in turn, really enjoyed his work relationships and bonds that were made.

From youth to adulthood, David became what we would describe as the ultimate Star Wars fan! Intrigued by the storyline and characters, there was never a moment with lack of excitement to discuss all things Star Wars new and old. He became a true enthusiast, collecting hundreds of Star Wars and GI-Joe Memorabilia, imprinting the classic R2D2 and C3P0 droids as body art/tattoos.

Throughout his short lived life, David certainly made an impact on many and will not be forgotten.

May the force be with you forever David as you journey to a galaxy far away.

A Memorial Service will be held, on Sunday, June 22, 2025 at 1p.m. with a reception to follow at the Mitchell Funeral Home.