Obituary of David Urquhart

It is with deep sadness that the family announces the death of David Allison Urquhart on July 31, 2025. He was the loving and devoted husband of Edna Araminta Urquhart of Lincoln Road, Fredericton, New Brunswick. David was born in Fredericton, the son of the late Earle and Edith Urquhart. David is survived by his much-loved children, David Jock (Renate) Urquhart and Shauna (Heathe) Stillman as well as treasured grandchildren, Ilana, Kaitlyn and Trevor Urquhart and Jacklyn Stillman. David leaves behind his highly cherished brother Aubrey Urquhart of Quispamsis, NB, his brothers-in-law Jack (Judy) Nicholson, Dean (Janet) Nicholson of Fredericton. David was very proud of his many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by sisters-in-law Donna Nicholson, Georgie Urquhart and Laurine Green (Vernon).  

David graduated from Fredericton High School, attended Moncton Technical school and graduated from Maritime Forest Ranger School in 1958. Following graduation, David worked for the Provincial Government, Forest Protection Branch of the Department of Natural Resources, where he met Edna. Their love and devotion for each other was unwavering for close to 63 years. He began his forestry career as a Forest Ranger in charge of the Province of New Brunswick’s water bombing operation, as well as other forestry projects.

He was inducted into the New Brunswick Forestry Hall of Fame at the Woodsman Museum.

In 1967 David accepted the position of Fredericton’s 1^st Superintendent of Parks and Trees, working in Urban forestry and Dutch Elm Disease.

He was the founding member of the Atlantic Arboriculture Association and in 1996 was recognized by Landscape New Brunswick for excellence in horticulture. David was involved in the establishment of the Fredericton Arboretum. He was also involved for many years with the New Brunswick Highland Games and Fredericton Trails.

David retired after 30 years with the City of Fredericton in 1997. Following retirement, David volunteered his time as a National Judge for Communities in Bloom for the next 10 years, judging cities across Canada and the Territories of Yukon. Dad had a passion for tending his own flower gardens and loved being outside mowing his property.

David would want to thank all the people who supported him over the years. Fredericton Tree Commission, co-workers, City of Fredericton, the public, Saint Andrews Society Pipe Band, friends and his family.

David had a deep faith in God and was very involved in many church activities.

Visitation will take place at McAdam’s Funeral Home on Sunday, August 10, 2025 at 1:30 pm followed by the funeral in the chapel at 3:00 pm officiated by Rev. Larry Harrison of Brookfield, NS. For those who wish, donations can be made to the Chalmers Foundation, Hospice Fredericton or the Keswick Cemetery Association Inc.