David APLIN

David Aplin passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones on August 11 after a brief illness. Dave truly lived life every day and is an inspiration to all those who knew his passion for life and the people around him.

Survived by his lifelong partner, best friend and wife, Grace “Gracie” Elizabeth, with whom he shared 62 years of marriage and who was the love of his life. Survived also by his three children Terry-Lynn (Jim Laverty), Laurel (Pete Lipohar) and Jeff (Jennifer Aplin); and his grandchildren Katie and Connor (Kiersten) Short, Jayme and Stephany (Alex) Laverty, Jessica (Corbin), Jonathan (Emily) and Josh Englert, Jayden (Nakayliah), Drew and Elise Aplin, and numerous nieces and nephews.

David is also survived by his brother Nick Aplin of Ottawa and sister Jackie Aplin (Kal Haikola) of Toronto. He was predeceased by his brother Frank Aplin and his sister-in-law Myrtle.

Born in Toronto on April 17, 1939, David graduated from the University of Toronto with an Industrial Engineering degree and then from York University with an MBA.

Dave’s business career included management roles with CN Rail, 3M, Eaton’s, and Jim Pattison Group.

In 1973 David moved with his family from Toronto to Edmonton, and in 1975 founded David Aplin & Associates, a staffing firm based in Alberta, which now ranks as one of the largest professional staffing firms in Canada.

Dave became a legendary recruiter in the 1970’s and 1980’s. As he grew the business, his entrepreneurial spirit was matched only by his belief in the power of people and the unique abilities of each person. He lived with the belief that people are at the heart of every successful business, and this belief shaped every aspect of his life. His legacy is one of integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, not perfection.

Beyond his professional achievements, he touched the hearts of countless people who met him. He was a mentor, a leader, a beloved family man, and a dear friend to so many. His impact reached into the lives of people wherever he met them, always living with kindness, curiosity about people and a genuine desire to leave people better than he found them.

The family is truly grateful for the exceptional care from the entire team at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital.

If you wish to honor David’s memory, please consider a donation to United Way Alberta Capital Region, a charity that was close to his heart and one that he supported passionately.

A celebration of David’s life is planned in Edmonton on Friday October 18, 2024 at the Edmonton Art Gallery beginning at 3pm. 

If you are not able to attend, but wish to particpate using a live stream, please follow this link.    https://www.rispektmedia.com/davidaplin1018

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