Hemsing – It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, David Stuart Hemsing. He passed away peacefully on October 7th, 2024 at the age of 65 years, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. David was born in Brooks on May 22nd, 1959, the twenty-second child of Mary and Sylvester Hemsing. He was raised with his large loving family on their farm in Rolling Hills. He grew up admiring his older siblings, playing sports, helping on the farm and eventually joining his older brothers in the oilfield industry. In grade twelve, he met his future wife, Karen Rommens. They were married in 1981, and started their new lives in Brooks. Their son, Tyler, was born in 1984. Soon after, daughters Andrea and Laura were welcomed to make their family complete. Throughout the adventures of raising their children, they stayed and established roots in Brooks and the surrounding areas. Early on in his career, David joined forces with four of his brothers to establish Champion Drilling. After the sale of Champion Drilling, David ventured on his own to form Quintera Drilling. David and partners started Lasso Drilling in 2013, continuing to make many lasting relationships. David enjoyed his long-time involvement with the Brooks Kinsmen Club, working rodeos and on many other community service projects. He proudly supported his local hockey team and served in several capacities on the board of the Brooks Bandits Hockey Club. Travel destinations with friends and family included China, Mexico, Maui, California and numerous fishing trips. Dave’s many interests included reading, gardening, restoring antiques and politics. David will be fondly remembered for his lighthearted, friendly nature and practical jokes. David often brought his extended family together for delicious meals and plentiful laughter. His true love was spending time and making memories with his grandkids including camping, off-roading, boating and fishing. David was predeceased by his beloved son Tyler, his parents, and his siblings, James and Barbara. He is survived by his loving wife Karen; daughters, Andrea Wionzek (Reece) and Laura Hartley (Aaron); grandchildren, Mackenzie, Sawyer, Lincoln and Cora. He is also survived by 19 brothers and sisters and their extended family as well as mother-in-law Cora Rommens and brothers and sisters-in-law. The family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks to the staff of the Brooks Hospital for their compassionate care. Funeral Mass was celebrated on Tuesday, October 15th, at 10:30 am at St Mary’s Parish Catholic Church. Rev. Marino Infante Celebrant. Interment followed at Brooks Cemetery. Luncheon followed at the Heritage Inn and Convention Centre, Brooks. In lieu of flowers, please feel welcome to share David’s love of animals with a donation directly to Brooks Animal Protection Society (BAPS), Box 86, Brooks, Alberta T1R 1B2.
Cremation is entrusted to and conducted at
Smith Funeral Home Ltd., Brooks
Funeral arrangements entrusted to:
SMITH FUNERAL HOME LTD.
BROOKS, ALBERTA
Condolences may be forwarded through www.sfh.ca
Telephone 403-362-4636 or Toll Free 866-362-4652
“Our Families Serving Your Family with Complete Burial or Cremation Services”
