David Alexander Cruickshank, Father of Jessi Cruickshank, Passes Away in San Diego

Brantford, Ontario – The community is mourning the tragic loss of David Alexander Cruickshank, a distinguished lawyer and beloved father of Canada’s popular Jessi Cruickshank. David passed away in San Diego on June 25th, 2024.

David is survived by his wife, Maria Iriarte, his first wife, Joyce Resin, his daughters Amanda Pendleton (Greg) and Jessi Cruickshank (Evan Gatica), and his grandchildren, Louis, Isla, Dray, Rio, and Romi. He also leaves behind his siblings Katherine Cruickshank (Peter Rowland), Janice Cruickshank (Paul Mundy), and Susan Hegwood (Robert).

Born in Brantford to Ross and Moneta (née Stinson), David spent his childhood in Blenheim and Cambridge. He excelled academically, earning a BA and an LLB from the University of Western Ontario, where he played varsity volleyball and badminton and joined the Sigma Chi Fraternity. David furthered his education at Harvard University, obtaining a master’s degree in law.

David’s career was marked by significant contributions to the legal profession. He served as a trusted training advisor for top legal firms globally through his partnership with Edge International, working in the UK, the US, Canada, and Brazil. His legal practice included roles at Gowlings in Toronto and Paul Weiss in New York. Notably, his tenure as Director of the Berger Royal Commission on Family Law in Vancouver greatly influenced Canadian family law. He also helped establish the University of Calgary Law School and taught at the University of British Columbia, the University of Bristol, and Pepperdine University.

Despite his professional achievements, David’s greatest pride was his role as a father. With his first wife, Joyce, he introduced his daughters to diverse cultures through travels to Russia, Australia, and Europe. They shared adventures on ski slopes, soccer fields, road trips to music festivals, and dance floors. David cherished being a grandfather, actively participating in his grandchildren’s lives with enthusiasm and love.

In his later years, David enjoyed a vibrant life with Maria, his wife of eight years. They lived actively in San Diego, embarking on foreign travels, long-distance bike rides, and enjoying their cottage on Camano Island, Washington. David was an athlete who played hockey into his 60s before taking up triathlon. He was a lifelong learner who appreciated art, culture, and a good glass of wine.

David Alexander Cruickshank’s legacy is one of professional excellence, dedication to family, and a zest for life. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.