It is with profound shock and broken hearts that we, the family of David Troy Boutilier, age 46, announce his sudden passing at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital ICU, Sydney, surrounded by his loving family, on Tuesday, January 20, 2026.

Born in Glace Bay on April 22, 1979, David Troy Boutilier- affectionately known as “Boots”- was the beloved son of Dave and Norma (MacIntosh) Boutilier. Growing up on Lake Road, David was raised with immense love, care, and devotion by his parents, alongside his older brother, Stephen. In his neighbourhood, he formed many cherished childhood friendships- bonds that remained strong throughout his life.

After graduating from high school, David lived in Victoria, B.C., where he worked alongside his brother before gaining his independence and navigating life on his own. During his school years and well into adulthood, David made friends wherever he went. He was known for his beautiful, bright smile and his signature big wave, always greeting others with warmth and kindness. 

In the summer of 2006, David met the love of his life and his best friend, Erin (Neary), and from that moment on, they were inseparable. To remain close to his family, he began working at Harbourstone Enhanced Care in 2007, initially in support services and later in laundry services. Known for his meticulous nature and exceptional work ethic, David took great pride in his job and everything he did. He cherished caring for his family, home, and cars, and he treasured time spent with loved ones. 

Above all, David was a devoted son, brother, uncle, and husband, but his greatest joy and most treasured role was being father to his beloved daughter, Maria. She was the light of his life, his constant pride and joy, and their bond was unbreakable- she was never far from his side and always the center of his conversation. 

David will be missed immensely by his beloved wife, Erin and daughter, Maria; his parents, Dave and Norma; brother, Stephen (Nadine); niece, Bryah (Braydon); and nephew, Coleton (Brooke). He will also be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his extended family, including many cherished aunts, uncles, and cousins, as well as his mother-in-law, Anne Neary and family, who adored him. David treasured his time with his family, as well as Erin’s siblings and their children. His passing has left a void in our hearts that can never be filled.

David is predeceased by his paternal grandparents, Gussie and Blanche (Nearing) Boutilier, maternal grandparents, Stephen and Etta (MacDonald) MacIntosh, and his father-in-law, Jackie Neary, who loved David like a son. He is also predeceased by several very special aunts and uncles who have gone before him and will now hold him in loving embrace.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to EHS for their quick response and compassionate care, as well as to the staff of the Glace Bay Emergency Department and the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Intensive Care Unit, who worked tirelessly, while showing gentle care and devotion. Special thanks are also extended to David’s good friend and neighbour, Gary MacPherson, who performed CPR and remained by David’s side until first responders arrived. We are eternally grateful to all who cared for David during his time of need.

In lieu of flowers, donations in David’s memory may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the IWK Children’s Hospital, or a charity of one’s choice.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held on Friday, January 30th, 2026 from 2-4 p.m. 7-9 p.m. in V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, 16 Reserve Street, Glace Bay.

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, January 31st, 2026 at 11 a.m. in Holy Cross Church, Glace Bay followed by a reception in the lower level of the church. Fr. Norman MacPhee presiding. Online condolences to the family can be expressed at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca

The funeral will be livestreamed at:  https://www.facebook.com/vjmcgillivray?

"We will hold you in our hearts until we can hold you in Heaven."

Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free.

I’m following the path God has laid you see.

I took His hand when I heard His call,

I turned my back and left it all.

I could not stay another day, 

To laugh, to love, to work or play.

Tasks left undone must stay that way,

I’ve found the peace at the close of the day.

If my parting has left a void,

Then fill it with remembered joys.

A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss,

Oh yes, these things I too will miss.

Be not burdened with times of sorrow,

My life’s been full, I savoured much,

Good friends, good times, a loved one’s touch.

Perhaps my time seems all too brief,

Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief.

Lift up your hearts and peace to thee,

God wanted me now; He set me free.