In Memory of David Mitenko

David William Mitenko of Calgary, AB, passed away on Thursday, November 24, 2022 at the age of 47 years. 

David was born in Red Deer, AB, on April 6, 1975. He and his family moved to Calgary later that year. 

David attended Calgary Quest Childrens Society, St. Augustine’s Elementary and Junior High School and Graduated from Bishop Grandin High School.  

Some of David’s favourite activities included swimming, bowling, and attending Options day program for city day trips, exercise and arts programs. He looked forward to going to Camp Horizon, and road trips to West Edmonton Mall with a stop at the Red Deer Value Village store. As modelled by his parents, David enjoyed going to church at St. Anthony’s, First Assembly, and Center Street Church. 

David moved out of the family home in 1995 and into in his own condo in Kingsland, where he was supported by Rose Viray. Rose was dedicated to David’s personal care for 20 years. 

David then moved to Ronnaley Cayenne’s home where he thrived and shared the home with roommate Scott Desjardine.  Ronnaley and Brian nurtured David’s interests, introduced him to new experiences and encouraged his independence. David adored Hazel the poodle and loved throwing her ball and taking Hazel for walks in the neighborhood.  

David loved to travel and enjoyed many memorable vacations with family to Long Island Lake, Alberta, Meadow Lake Montana, visiting family in Lethbridge and Vancouver and his biggest trip to Toronto with Ronnaley.   

David’s favorite music included songs by Allan Sherman, Raffi, Fred Penner, Sharon, Lois, & Bram, and many more. David preferred vinal records, enjoyed experiencing the album covers, and made use of many, many record players.  David will be most remembered for his smiles and sense of humour as he watched The Price Is Right and other fun game shows. He always looked forward to car rides to go Thrift shopping, see the airport, record stores, or his favorite malls.  

David is survived by brother Dan Mitenko (Nikki), and sisters Lisa Grothman (Gary), Cathy Eastwood and Lynn Dawson (John); as well as nephew and nieces (Rove, Ella, Flynn, Allison, Rachel, Claire, Teagan and Adrian), long-time care-giver Rose Viray, and supportive roommate family Ronnaley, Brian and Brianne Cayenne, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. 

David was predeceased by his parents Nat and Mary Mitenko.  

 David lived with Cerebral Palsy all his life.  David's personality and presence touched many people and it was rich and rewarding for all those around him.  The Cerebral Palsey association helped David and his parents break barriers and gain access to society for David and many others with Cerebral Palsey.