Obituary of Mr. David James Britten
On Thursday, August 17, 2023, David James Britten passed away. Born July 17, 1968, to parents Donna (nee Wakelin) and Jim Britten, he left an indelible mark on anyone who knew him.
Throughout David’s life he endured many challenges including a complex uncontrolled seizure disorder, limited mobility and a severe developmental disability. Although he lost the ability to communicate in words, his ability to connect with people meaningfully and expressively with laughter and through song was contagious. His smile and the glint in his eye were something very special.
Though his life was cut short by an acute illness, David lived a long life supported by the care of his family and his extended family at Marydon Group Home, and through the advocacy of many. His parents were steadfast advocates and dedicated their life service to improving the needs of people with disabilities as board members of Community Living Toronto and OASIS, and as founding members of Extend-A-Family and Developmental Services Toronto. They proudly sought opportunities to influence policy directions for families, for caregivers, and for people with developmental disabilities.
David brought joy to all those around him. He was a son to Donna and Jim, predeceased in 2016 and 2020; a brother to Jill (Glen), Wendy (Dave); uncle to Morgan, Mitchell, Dylan, Connor; nephew to Ron (Sue), Nancy, Bob (Kathy), Tom (Joni); a cousin to Ryan, Mai, Lee, Alex, Annie, Kate, Matt, Terri, Laura, Kathleen, Carolyn, Mike, and Jeff. He was also a friend to the residents of Marydon Group Home where he resided for over thirty years. We have an immense appreciation and respect for the long lasting partnership among our family and members of Community Living Toronto - especially for Leila and the many wonderful caregivers at his group home who will always carry a special place in our hearts.
Everyone who met David developed a greater capacity for love, kindness, patience, and a deeper understanding of the difficulties faced by people with disabilities. We all lovingly share a common bond through lessons and music from Mr. Rogers, Mr. DressUp, The Friendly Giant, and Sesame Street.
Cremation has already taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at Ogden Funeral Home at 4164 Sheppard Ave. E., Scarborough (east of Kennedy Rd.) on Thursday, August 24, 2023, with visitation from 12 to 1 pm followed by a formal ceremony in the chapel at 1 pm with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Community Living Toronto.
