It is with profound sadness that our family announce the passing of David Norman Perschy, beloved father, husband, son, brother, and friend to many. He died peacefully but far too soon on July 27, 2024 at the age of 60. A gentle, generous, and gregarious soul, he will forever be missed.

Born on October 24, 1963, David lived in various parts of Toronto, a city and community that he loved to serve. In 1995, he joined the Box 12 Association, a volunteer group providing on-scene support to the Toronto Fire Service during major fires, in addition to charitable endeavours such as the Christmas Toy Drive. His daughter Katia holds fond memories of helping her father load the firetruck with donated toys destined for children who had lost theirs in fires. A member for almost 30 years, he continued serving as treasurer up until his passing.

After graduating from Lawrence Park Collegiate in 1983, he attended Glendon College, York University, where he studied History. Fluent in French, he also knew German and Latin, maintaining an appreciation for language throughout his life. His interest in French led him to a position with the French consulate, followed by various roles in the financial industry. It was while working at CIBC in the 1990s that he became fascinated by technology, teaching himself several computing languages and later working as a business analyst in Toronto’s emerging tech sector.

In 2003, he joined the Toronto Paramedic Services and found his true calling. Working in the Communications Centre, David combined his extensive geographic knowledge of his hometown, with his technological expertise and understanding of emergency response. He loved his work with the city because allowed him to help people on a daily basis and be of service to his community, both of which were incredibly important to him.

A Superintendent since 2010, David was respected and cherished by his colleagues for his sharp intellect and warm humour. During the Covid-19 Pandemic, he worked long hours, always volunteering to fill staffing shortages or oversee software tests whenever necessary. In recognition of his outstanding dedication to emergency services, David was awarded the Exemplary Service Medal by the Governor General of Canada shortly before his passing.

A devoted father and husband, David loved nothing more than spending time with his family and caring for them in every way. He and his wife of 33 years, Anna, were loving and supportive partners. They learned from one another and encouraged each other’s career and personal interests. More than anything, David adored his role as a father, always doting on his two children. From chauffeuring his daughter to dance class or his son to Air Cadets, to cooking dinner nearly every single night, he did it all with love. An ever-present and supportive father, his children consider themselves exceptionally lucky.

David loved life. History, classical music, art, good food, photography, and travel were among his many passions - though he could be found just as happy, pottering around the garden on a sunny afternoon. An avid photographer, David captured some remarkable images over the years, particularly on his travels, which his family will cherish. Enjoying cycling from a young age, David road across the European Alps in his early 20s and then with his children throughout their lives. He was also extraordinarily funny, constantly cracking dad jokes or doing "bits" with a twinkle in his eye.

The Beaches neighbourhood held a special place in David’s heart. It’s where he and Anna spent a lot of time as a young couple and later where they raised their family. He loved long walks along the boardwalk and chatting up the neighbours about world events or maybe nothing at all. Always friendly and cheerful, he will be deeply missed by all those who knew him.

David was diagnosed with Glioblastoma in May of 2022, yet through the help of his medical team, was able to enjoy two additional very special years of life with his family and friends, doing all of the things he enjoyed most. The family extends a heartfelt thank you for the tremendous skill, care, and support given by Dr. Perry, Inga, Eirena and everyone at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, as well as a special thanks to Dr. Das and his surgical team at St. Michael’s Hospital.

David is survived by his loving wife, Anna, beloved children, Katia and Nicholas, his parents, Norman (Inge) and Margaret (Mary-Jane), his sister Susan, brother-in-law Marek (Basia), and nephews Michal and Pawel. He will also be dearly missed by the family cats, Ellie and Pippa, whom he adored.

There will be a private funeral mass, followed by a celebration of life at Mount Pleasant Funeral Centre on August 15, 2024 between 1:00-3:00 p.m. for family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations to the Gord Downie Fund for Brain Cancer Research.