Obituary of David James Ayton

Surrounded by love and prayers, our soft-spoken and gentle husband, father and papa, peacefully slipped away to his eternal, heavenly home on Sunday, October 19, 2025. Beloved husband of Marianne (nee Pruce), and proud father of Benjamin (Brianna), Andrew (Cherie), Jared (Jennifer) and Hannah. He will always be the cherished papa of Jackson, Charlie, Harrison, Alaina, Clara, Winston, Seth, Wesley and Lynnea. Dave was born in London, Ontario to the late David and Betty Ayton. He was the eldest of the six siblings: Janet, Gord, Len (Sherry), Ron and the late Bruce (Barb).

Dave moved to Sault Ste Marie to attend Sault College and graduated from the three-year Mechanical Engineering Technologist program. Upon graduation he began his career at Algoma Steel in the Engineering Department, retiring in 2012. Dave and Marianne met at a College and Career weekend at Camp Aush-Bik-Koong (ABK) in August 1979 and were married on a Thanksgiving weekend in October 1982.  Dave became a devoted family man and supported his family in many practical ways, demonstrating his love and devotion. He provided a steadfast and solid foundation. It became a tradition that the family would spend a week at Camp ABK where Dave and Marianne’s love story began. The family attended Bethany Baptist Church where Dave, in his quiet way, worshiped and faithfully served with his family.

The family wishes to thank all those who provided support during our journey with Dave’s health and home going: Our dear family members, friends, church families, neighbours, SAH health professionals and their staff, VON Algoma, Alzheimer’s Society, Bayshore Home Health, ON Health at Home, Stephen Ministry and the F J Davey Home. We thank and praise God for all of you and others who have called, visited, prayed, sent cards, gifts of food or encouraged our family in any way.

Family and friends may gather for a celebration of life at Bethany Baptist Church (1074 Second Line W, Sault Ste. Marie) on Saturday, November 1, 2025.  Memories and music will be shared from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. followed by visitation and light refreshments. If desired, memorial donations to Camp Aush-Bik-Koong or the Alzheimer Society of Sault Ste. Marie & Algoma District would be appreciated.

Arrangements entrusted to Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758). 

All the pain and grief is over
Every restless tossing passed
I am now at peace forever
Safely home in Heaven at last
H. VanderArk

“Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty" Psalm 91:1