David “Dave” Ostli passed away on the morning of May 21st, 2026 at South Shore Regional Hospital in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia. He was 72 years old. He is predeceased by his father, Trygve Bjarne Ostli, his mother, Edna Frances (Whitford) Ostli, and brother, Bruce Ostli. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Margaret “Peggy” Ostli, son Adam (Stacie), daughter Erin (Duc), and his granddaughter, the light of his life, Hana. Dave also has two surviving sisters, Mari (Peter), and Anne (Robert), sister-in-law Pamela, and nieces Bonita, Katie, and Joanna. He loved his family deeply and with his whole heart.
Dave was born in Bridgewater and was a lifelong resident of Chester. He held a wealth of knowledge about the history and lore of the area and was a founding member of the Chester Municipal Heritage Society. He would often do a “shore tour” around the village on his way home in the afternoon.
From a young age he developed a keen interest in woodworking and became a master craftsman specializing in woodturning. Dave’s artistry is admired both internationally and close to home, including the advent wreath and urn table at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church in Chester. He had an eye for detail and took great care in creating pieces of exceptional quality that showcased his preferred medium. He always made time for visitors at the shop and was happy to share his expertise with others.
Dave had an incredible thirst for knowledge on a variety of subjects that piqued his interest over the years. He enjoyed many hobbies, including gardening, fishing, biking, listening to music, and indulging in the occasional feed of lobster.
Dave valued the true friendships he kept throughout his life and enjoyed telling jokes, stories, and discussing local news and current events of the world over a cup of tea. For those that knew Dave well, please cherish the stories and memories you shared with him.
Donations in Dave’s honour can be made to your local foodbank or Hope for Wildlife. With respect for Dave’s wishes there will be no formal service, however a “send off” has been planned for June 13th from 1:30 to 4 o’clock in the afternoon at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church in Chester. Please enter the church for visitation and then proceed to Tuck Hall for light refreshments. Sharing stories and memories of Dave is encouraged.
The Ostli family would like to thank the incredible staff at South Shore Regional Hospital and many other medical professionals that helped him live a fulfilling life right to the end.
Arrangements entrusted to Sweeny’s Funeral Home, Bridgewater, where online condolences may be left at www.sweenysfuneralhome.com
