04/22/2023
This week, we lost a special person.
David Blackwell was a trailblazer in community television; he was an event producer extraordinaire, a passionate advocate for local organizations and charities, and someone who truly cared about people.
Devoted to his family, David had an impressive network of friends and colleagues. He was my boss, my mentor, and my friend.
When I was a young producer, still very green in the industry, David generously took me under his wing, allowing me to assist him on larger-scale and live event productions. He loved making things grand — huge screens, lighting cues, staging synchronization. His attention to detail was unmatched; he literally thought of everything.
David had charisma. Unmistakable with his long, flowing silver hair and big wide smile, he had the respect of high-profile leaders, Police Chiefs, production crews, and his colleagues.
He appreciated the finer things in life — a quality glass of w**e, snazzy watches, and the most colourful fashion. He’s still one of the only people I know who can rock purple suede shoes.
He was hard-working and confident, but kind.
We had a mutual respect that went beyond work. He would always make a point of asking about my family, and would proudly share photos of his adventures with Pat to Switzerland, stories of his children Graham and Kerry, and when he became an Opa, he glowed with pride.
Like any of us, he had his quirks — he was often at the office before I was even awake, and I’d find dozens of emails from him with reminders and “deliverables”. I’ve come to learn and appreciate that his mind just didn’t stop.
Since leaving Rogers, we still connected a few times each year, and when we worked together, it was just like old times. David had a profound impact on my career, how I work, and who I am.
I am heartbroken his life was cut short; he will be sorely missed by many and I will be forever grateful for his wisdom, friendship, and love. My condolences to his family and all who knew him.
To leave a message in the online Guestbook: https://lnkd.in/ggKYj2es
