We are heartbroken to announce the passing of David Gotao Tan at Southlake Hospital on the morning of January 18, 2026, at the age of 60.

David is preceded in death by his father Jesus and his sister-in-law Nikki. He was a loving and devoted husband to Susie;  a proud and loving father to Alicia and Jessica (Mack) and a fun-loving grandfather to Elsie. David is also survived and remembered by his mother Eufrosina, his brothers Ben (Nanette) and Felix; his sister Angie; his nieces and nephews Andrew (Aiko), Ann, Ces (Matthew), Angelo, Cyra (Paul) and Cleo, and his godchildren Matthew (Amelia), Emily (Aaron) and Hilary.     

David was a faithful man of God who had a heart for serving those around him. He often went above and beyond to put others first, always demonstrating his kindness and generosity. David enjoyed traveling, finding new gadgets, listening and dancing to music, and enjoying good food- especially when he was able to share these things with others. He had many talents yet showed a humility that was inspirational.  

To David, family was everything. He met his soulmate when he was 19 years old and the rest was the stuff of fairy tales. David and Susie shared 36 wonderful years of marriage. Their love was an inspiration to others and difficult to capture in words. Their life together was filled with endless happy memories, whether it was traveling to an exciting destination, spending time in their trailer, or enjoying each others’ company. David was so proud to be a dad to Alicia and Jessica and a father-in-law to Mack, often putting them first and supporting their hopes and dreams. Whether it was helping them move houses or apartments, or providing moral support, he was always there to give a hug or encouraging word.  Becoming a grandfather to Elsie was one of his greatest joys, and he always held a special place in his heart for his beloved grand-doggie, Charlie. 

Beyond his family, David was a valued colleague and trusted friend to many. He was consistently upbeat, bringing a positive attitude and contagious energy to every interaction with colleagues and clients. He brought a sense of humour and warmth to the office, contributing to a culture where people enjoyed working together. David took great pride in his work and demonstrated a strong professional work ethic. He was generous with his time and knowledge, readily sharing expertise to help his colleagues grow and succeed. He made the workplace brighter and his impact on his colleagues and friends will be long-lasting.

Though our hearts are broken, we take comfort in knowing that David is now at peace in God’s presence. We know that his love, laughter, and legacy will live on forever. 

Family and friends will be received at the Dixon-Garland Funeral Home, 166 Main Street Markham North, Markham on Sunday, January 25th, 2026 from 12-2 p.m. for visitation with a service at 2 p.m. and a reception to follow. 

Our family would like to thank the staff at the Markham Stouffville Hospital Emergency department, as well as the surgeons and Cardiac Intensive Care Unit staff at Southlake Hospital for taking such good care of David, and for keeping him with us long enough to spend some time with him before going to be with the Lord. 

Online condolences can be made at www.dixongarland.com 

For those who wish to make a donation in David's honour, please consider the following organizations:

The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada

Diabetes Canada

Compassion Canada

As the visitation time will be from 12:00-2:00 pm, please see below for suggested arrival times for those planning to attend, to see familiar faces:  

12:00pm David’s work connections

12:30pm Connections to Alicia, Jess and Mack

1:00pm Connections to Susie

1:30pm Church connections

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