Obituary of David Garnet Maryka

June 13, 1958 – Trail, British Columbia

May 1, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

It is with extremely sad hearts that we share David Maryka, of Calgary, AB, beloved husband of JaneAnne (nee Skeet) and father of Taylor and Eric passed away on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at the Foothills Medical Centre, at the age of 65 years.

David was born in Trail, BC, on June 13, 1958, to Walter and Nelda Maryka. David grew up in Genelle, near Trail, enjoying escapes to the mountains, the river, and all the trappings living in a small community brings. He had many friends growing up there and they were often a part of his many uncorroborated shenanigans. He loved to share these stories as an adult for some good laughs and some shock value to his sons and friends.

He left Genelle and moved to Calgary, AB, to pursue his post-secondary education at the University of Calgary. He started in Chemistry, moved to Education, and eventually found where he belonged in Computer Science. He enjoyed his years at university, learning new things meeting new people, and being out in the big world.

Upon graduation, he began his long career in the Oil and Gas industry in Calgary. David had a brilliant mind for programming and developed many unique and successful Land Management and Accounting programs for small oil and gas companies. This led him to co-found the company In House Software where he wore many hats. He went on to work for a few more companies that were using his programs and then moved on to consult independently. He began to reinvent himself as a Software Architect and explore ways to use his expertise in new directions. He eventually decided to retire and have more fun at the computer. David dedicated his whole self to his work and spent many long hours to perfect his craft.

David met Jane Anne in July of 1985 at a Stampede party and they became engaged in November of that year. They were married a year later, Stampede week of 1986. On May 15, 1990, David and Jane Anne welcomed their first son Taylor Alexander, and on May 4, 1993, were blessed with their second son, Eric Daniel.

With their family complete, they resided in the community of Silver Springs. Despite David’s long and tiring work schedule, he always found time for fun with the boys at the play park or going on adventures in Bowmont Park. He was always actively involved in both of their recreational pursuits.

As a family, they enjoyed time out at “the cabin” and at their home in Fernie. They also enjoyed many trips to places around the world. They swam with stingrays in the Caymen Islands, dolphins in Hawaii, exploring castles and history in England, and David was always up for any crazy ride at theme parks.

David enjoyed the outdoors, walking and biking and he always stole some quiet time to walk with the dogs to think or just clear his mind for a brief period.

David was always there to support Jane Anne and the boys in their new ideas, careers, and life adventures. He never judged, just quietly listened, asked questions, and then mostly let you make the right decision on your own. When the tough chats were required, it was always on a drive, or a walk and it was your time to listen. His famous quote was always, “It’s a process.”

David was a keen observer of life with a curious mind. He had a quiet soul, so he was never the loudest at a gathering, but always willing to talk about the world and life with whoever was interested in a chat.

He was also thrilled he got to stand beside his sons as they married and to welcome his first grandchild, Te Ahumairangi. He got to spend three joyous years with him.

David was unlucky to have developed an autoimmune disease called Pulmonary Sarcoidosis. He courageously lived and fought this disease for many years, which affected many things he could do and ultimately robbed him of the ability to interact in public and spend time with family and friends. He fought back from setbacks many times with never a complaint and accepted his situation with bravery and strength. Ultimately, complications from Sarcoidosis won the very long battle, but he was able to fight on his terms and leave us with the grace of a warrior.

David’s love for his family

 gave him the drive and strength

 to continue to fight for every breath.

Rest now, thank you for that love

David is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Jane Anne, lovingly by his sons, Taylor (Jessica) and Eric (Maia); and grandson Te Ahumairangi, all of Calgary. He also leaves behind his best friends, Douglas and Kimberly Swanson of Fruitvale, BC; and his constant companions, Piper and Merlin.

David was predeceased by his parents, Walter and Nelda Maryka; and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Allen and Jeanne Skeet.

A Brief Funeral Service will be held at Holy Cross Anglican Church (2828 – 19th Street N.W., Calgary, AB) on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. A Celebration of David’s Life will follow at Silver Springs Golf & Country Club (1600 Varsity Estates Dr. NW, Calgary, AB) at 1:00 p.m. Those wishing to pay their respects and celebrate David’s life are welcome.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directed towards the Canadian Sarcoidosis Organization, specifically to “Chad’s Champions” ongoing fundraising for a Bronchoscopy Suite at the Foothills Medical Center, https://engage.ucalgary.ca/sarcoidosis. At the University of Calgary, researchers are dedicated to unravelling the mysteries of this complex condition and improving outcomes for those affected.

David’s family would like to express they’re sincere thanks to Drs. Roman and Szmigielski for their care to David the past several years, making his quality of life so much better. Also, a heartfelt thank you to the entire team in the ICU Pod A at the Foothills Medical Centre, for their AMAZING care and dedication. A special thanks to Patrick and RT Ryan. You are making a difference by what you do.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with David’s family here.

In living memory of David Maryka, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, Calgary, AB T3G 2T3, Telephone: 403-241-0044.