Obituary of David Paul Iler

ILER, David Paul Passed away peacefully on January 15, 2020 into the comforting arms of his daughter, Leslie (Gary) Nantais (2007), whom he missed dearly. Loving husband of Dorothy (Vollans) for 67 ½ years. Loving dad to daughter Susan (Richard) Hebert. Cherished grandfather to Matthew (Valerie), Jeffrey (Jenna) Nantais. Proud great-grandfather to Benjamin David, Amelia, Noelle, Elizabeth Nantais. Sister Shirley Feher will miss all the reminiscing growing up on a farm, on the banks of the Detroit River in Amherstburg. Sisters in law, Mary Vollans, Anice Langille, and Nelda Vollans. Also remembered by numerous nieces and nephews. Predeceased by parents John and Hazel, siblings Harvey, Harold, Elmer, Melvin, Ilene (Squire), Allen, Geraldine (Elliott) and Jack. At the age of 13, dad landed a summer job on Bob-Lo Island for $1.90 per day plus tips, at the roller skating rink. At the age of 15 he was hired by Hugh Wigle to be a glazier at his Amherstburg Hardware Store, where he remained for 24 years. Mom and dad's first date was October 3, 1950 after meeting at the Amherstburg Echo. Mom was replacing his sister Geraldine in the office. They married June 19, 1952. In 1963 they purchased their own clay hill, 50 acres in Colchester South, Double "D" Acres, where they remained for 41 years. So many prize winning Harrow Fair Ribbons! The farm is in good hands. In 1968, he joined Local 552 Plumbers and Pipe Fitters, for life. Growing up, across from Bob-Lo Island and listening to music from the dance hall and from the Ste. Clair and Columbia Bob-Lo boats he took up piano playing. One of his bands, 'The Blue Notes' with best friend Len Lovell and brother in law Fred Squire got various gigs for $5.00 a night. In retirement, dad and mom volunteered his musical talents to various places, Kingsville Court, Erie Glen Manor, Leamington Nursing Home and Leamington Hospital. Dad composed 10 songs including 'Matthew Joe' and 'Matthew's Little Brother Jeff'. 'This Time' 1981 and 'Stay with Me' 1982 have registered copy rights. Dad sent in musical material for Anne Murray's consideration in 1982. Special thank you to, family for sitting with Dad, Doctors Cheung, Springer and Sorensen for 25 extra years, his caring Iler Lodge family and all those who helped dad celebrate his 90th. birthday, December 10, with cards and best wishes. Although the challenges of growing old made it impossible to remain together, dad never stopped loving mom. Out of respect for mom there is no visitation. A private burial will be held at the Iler Cemetery, Colchester. A "Double D" Acres rock with a plaque in memory of dad's dad, John sits vigil. In lieu of flowers donations made by cheque to the Harrow Food Bank or Essex County 4H Club would be appreciated. You may send your online condolences at www.geraldasmith.ca