Brother Durkee's distinguished 47-year career as a member and leader of the BCTGM was marked by an unwavering, untiring and relentless commitment to protecting and advancing the rights and standard of living of union members and their families. There was no fight he wouldn't lead, no adversary he wouldn't confront, if the best interests of workers and the BCTGM were at risk.

David’s true devotion to the principles and mission of the labor movement with his keen intellect, inspiring vision and integrity, compassion and generosity served as the foundation of his time as the leader of the BCTGM. The BCTGM is a stronger Union and the lives of union members and their families throughout North America are better because of David.

He was an amazing and sometimes radical union activist but also an incredible husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. A devoted family man, he always said the fight was about more than the gains we could win for present union members; the fight was to make a better world for his children and grandchildren. He will be greatly missed.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 global health crisis, the family has announced that at this time, there will be no funeral or other arrangements.

President Durkee, forever a union organizer at heart, often quoted Mother Jones. In this troubled time he would urge us all to: “Pray for the dead and fight like hell for the living.”