Obituary of David Paul Grezel, River Ryan

It is with heavy hearts and beautiful memories that we announce the passing of David Paul Grezel, at the age of 64, at his home in River Ryan on Wednesday, January 17,  2024, surrounded by his loving family.  

Born in Sydney, David was the son of the late Paul David Grezel and Patricia Josephine (Roach) Grezel. 

David worked at General Motors in Ontario for 31 years, but his heart was always in Cape Breton. His parents ran River Ryan Campground for many years, and he had always aspired to retire and return home to take it over. David made sure he could do so and had been living his dream for the past 15 years.   

David, nick named “Phingers”, was a family man and had a special love for his family and friends. Always telling stories and jokes and trying to play guitar; even though he couldn’t do anything but strum on it. David was always there for his family and had a deep kindness for everyone that had come into the yard. His brother, Robbie, was his best friend.  

He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Patricia Hanson, and three children, Stephen, Ontario, April (Steve), Ontario, and Krystle, River Ryan. David had six grandchildren whom he loved dearly; Ryane, Leland, Jackson, Alexis, Miley-jo, and Alicia. He is also survived by his special mother-in-law, Georgina Hanson, Ontario. 

He will be dearly missed by his brothers and sisters, Robbie, Isabel, Pattie-Anne (Doug), Paul-joe, Irene, Teresa (Shaun), and Marguerite (Lawrence). 

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his sister-in-law, Roxanne Grezel, and brother-in-law, Vincent Marullo. 

He will be missed by his sisters/brothers-in-law, and special nephew, Robert Grezel, and many more nieces and nephews.  

We would like to thank all the nurses and doctors who have taken care of him over the years.  

Cremation has taken place under the direction of V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, New Waterford. There will be no visitation or funeral service as per David’s request.  

Any donations can be made to the Cape Breton Regional Cancer Center. 

Online condolences to the family can be expressed at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca.