Published in The Lake Report, October 22, 2026, page 34.
A man of Irish wit, generosity of spirit, strong principles, courage and grace passed away quietly, after a long illness, at the R. H. Lawson Eventide Home on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, at the age of 93.
Beloved husband of Rev. Janet Cashin (née Wagner) and the late Brigid ‘Bridie’ (née Fitzpatrick, 1975). Cherished father of Mark (Sudan), the late Dane (1967) and loving grandfather of Kyle and Shane. He will be fondly remembered by his brother Tony, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
David was born in Dublin, Ireland, into a large and boisterous Irish family and emigrated to Canada in 1957. He married Brigid ‘Bridie’ Fitzpatrick in Toronto in 1958, and together they welcomed sons Dane in 1960 and Mark in 1965.
He worked for many years with CIBC, until his retirement in 1990.
David coached junior hockey teams (even though he could not skate), as well as boys and girls soccer teams at all levels from the youngest to corporate levels. He refereed soccer at all levels — sometimes at danger to his life!
Tragedy struck David’s life twice when his son Dane died of cancer in 1967, as did his wife Bridie in 1975. David and Mark, supported by a large group of fellow Irish, carried on with courage and Irish stoicism.
In 1978, David married Janet Wagner.
David and Janet “retired” to Niagara-on-the-Lake in 1993, where David became heavily involved in politics at the municipal, provincial and federal levels. He ran for election to town council twice (he lost) and lord mayor once (he lost) — but loved every minute of it! David played golf periodically with the WOOFS of the Niagara-on-the-Lake Golf Club.
His last years were difficult for David, as he battled the ravages of dementia.
The family wishes to thank all those who supported David in the last years, most notably PSW Sue who laughed with David at home and all the staff at Salvation Army Eventide Home in Niagara Falls who did their best to make his last years comfortable, family friend Tim who visited regularly, and others too numerous to mention who kept David in their hearts.
“Dearest David, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.”
Cremation has taken place.
Friends are invited to join the family at St. Saviour’s Church (12 Princess St., Queenston), visiting Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026, from 11 a.m. to noon. A funeral service in celebration of his life will be held at noon. A time of fellowship and refreshments will follow.
In memory of David, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer Society Niagara or R.H. Lawson Eventide Home, and would be appreciated.
Memories, photos and condolences may be shared at www.morseandson.com.
