David Tan's sudden death sparks an outpouring of support
Family and friends are reeling from the accidental death of former Lions Bay resident David Tan.
Tan was on a hike in Whistler with his wife and a group of friends on August 9 when the rock ridge he was walking along collapsed beneath him. He died in the subsequent fall.
His loss at age 28 has shocked his large group of friends and family and devastated his wife and life-partner Pim Shaitosa.
Besides Pim, Dave leaves his mother Jennifer, younger sister Lauren and older brother Brian Tan-Marshall, along with countless friends, colleagues and family members. His father Michael died in a traffic incident on the Sea to Sky highway in 2005.
David grew up in Lions Bay and long time residents will remember him from the time he was a small boy, holding his mother's hand and watching every construction truck that passed with wonder in his eyes. He grew up to be an avid outdoorsman, climbing rock faces and having adventures all over the world, many of them documented on his Instagram account.
A skilled and careful rock climber, David worked for Brucejack gold mine in Northern BC. He and Pim made their home in Squamish, where they were surrounded by friends in the climbing community.
Friend and housemate Oscar Radevsky has initiated a Go Fund Me campaign to help Pim deal with the aftermath of David's death, and the outpouring of support from family and friends and members of the climbing community has been swift and generous. Friends have also been invited to contribute to an online album of photos remembering their time with him. The Whistler Search and Rescue team who recovered David's body are also accepting donations HERE.
A celebration of David's life will be announced once arrangements have been made.
Editor's note: An event celebrating David's life will take place September 11 at Glacier Valley Farm in Squamish from 4–9 p.m. Attendees are invited to wear bright, weather-ready colours and bring ready-to-serve potluck dishes. (No alcohol) Carpooling is encouraged.
Have memories to share? Leave your comments below, or email us at editor@lionsbaywatershed.ca
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