This year, the Citizen lost one of our own, when David Rubenstein died in June. We think of him this holiday season. We miss you Dave!
When David Rubenstein, known affectionately by his friends, colleagues and clients as Dave, or Ruby, started at the Cowichan Valley Citizen some 29 years ago, he had no idea he would become such an intrinsic part of the community paper.
Coming to the job from a background of radio announcing (he had that deep radio voice), he soon found his groove.
Over the years Dave made the office a more colourful place with everything from his love of the Red Sox, to his passion for tennis, horse racing, and football (soccer).
And when we say passion, we mean it. Dave has sat down with some of tennis’s hottest stars, and photographed even more at the various international tournaments he attended.
His photos of the sport he so dearly loved have gained international recognition in recent years.
But he always had time for those close to home as well.
He has been invaluable to the employees as a longtime union representative for the paper, as well as just being someone you could always talk to when you needed an ear. In the spring and summer he’d bring in roses from his garden in Crofton to brighten the office. Ruby ran for Duncan City council on several occasions and was always up on the latest in the community.
In May, serious health issues meant the end of Dave’s tenure at the paper, but he’s left an indelible mark on our hearts.
David died on Monday, June 22, peacefully at Cowichan District Hospital, with his wife, Bonnie, and stepson, Bobby, at his side.
We’ll always be able to picture him walking into the office in his brown leather jacket and colourful scarf, celebrating the Red Sox or the Bruins, ready with a smile.
We are grateful for all the years we got to know and work with Dave, and we will miss him, but always carry on his passion for life.
