David Frederick Liefso
October 24, 1950 – January 5, 2026
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of David Frederick Liefso on January 5, 2026, at the age of 75.
Dave was born on October 24, 1950, in Chesley, Ontario, to Laurier and Mary Liefso, both of whom predeceased him. He carried his roots with pride and often returned home to Chesley to check in on family, reconnect with old friends, and catch up with cousins—especially Paul.
Dave was the beloved husband of Doreen Liefso (née Deroy) and a devoted father to Lyndon (Angèle) and Chantal (Sean). His greatest pride and joy were his grandkids, Rilley, Bonnie, Abby, and Noah.
He leaves behind his cherished siblings Linda (Sam), Irene, and Steven (Colleen), as well as his in-laws Roger (predeceased), Beverly (Doug), Lisa, Janis (Mike), and Jason. Dave also leaves many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him deeply.
Dave began his career as a millwright with Inco and retired after more than 30 years of dedicated service with Vale. Known for his strong work ethic and sharp mind, Dave was incredibly resourceful and had a true gift for fixing things. Whether it was a car, a washing machine, drywall, or even a cement floor—name it, Dave would find a way to fix it.
Dave had a deep love for muscle cars, rock music, and spending time at camp. One of his proudest achievements was creating a beautiful and lasting space at McCharles Lake with his longtime friends and partners Chuck McGaughey, Jack McGaughey, and Ray Spangler. Together—with plenty of mucking, chopping, grading, and a whole lot of blood, sweat, and tears—they built a little oasis that continues to be enjoyed by Dave and Jack’s children and grandchildren. It was a labour of love and friendship that meant the world to him.
Dave treasured time spent with his siblings, loved helping anyone in need, and was fiercely proud of his family. He held many friendships close to his heart, including Gary Denomme, John and Denise Hickey, Gabe Grégoire, and many others. He especially cherished the countless laughs, cold beers, and good times shared with his dear friends Jack and Gary.
Dave loved sitting in front of a good campfire—though anyone who knew him knew that he liked to start them his own way, and they were never quite big enough. He liked to stay busy, entertain, tell stories, and laugh often.
In true Dave fashion, we imagine him now with a cold beer in hand, rock music playing, and a campfire crackling nearby—probably adjusting it because it still isn’t big enough. He will be remembered for his generosity, his ingenuity, his laughter, and the countless ways he quietly made life better for those around him.
He will be deeply missed and forever loved.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Alzheimer’s Society and COPD Canada are graciously accepted. There will be no visitation; however, a celebration of life will be held later this summer, where stories will be shared, laughter encouraged, and a cold beer would certainly be approved by Dave.
www.cooperativefuneralhome.ca