ABONYI: David Emerson- With profound sadness and very heavy hearts we announce the unexpected passing of David Emerson Abonyi, a very special man. His life was a blessing; his memory a treasure. Born on a very hot, humid summer day, David lived 50 years . He died on June 6, 2022 in his father's loving arms at Norfolk General Hospital from a brief acute illness. The day began with bright sunshine and blue skies. During the day, two by two, the whole family said their sad goodbyes. As David's heartbeat was slowly fading, the clouds grew increasingly darker and, at his death, a gentle rain began and the Heavens started to weep. They wept and wept until a new day came. All of his life David lived with his family in their comforting home. Besides his parents, Julius and Margaret (Symons), also mourning are his brother Sean (Lisa), his sister Shannon (Michael) , his beloved niece Grace and two caring nephews, Max and Ender. David was affiliated with Norfolk Association of Community Living, where he was loved beyond words and will be missed beyond measure by his many friends there. They remember his love of music and outings, his gentle nature, his pleasant personality, and his big smile. Sharon, Laura, Mary Ellen and David enjoyed many good times together. There is a sadness, not from what they did not do but from what they will not do again; the steps they will not take together. David's life as a person with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex was challenging. He was unable to speak, read or write. He was a genius in his own way, navigating life as best as he knew how. Regardless, he took many troubles in stride. His enthusiasm for life was immeasurable. He loved riding his Ranger UTV in the forest, swinging under the maple tree or going for rides on his Power Wheelchair. He was particularly enthusiastic about riding up front in the big, new wheelchair van. His parents purchased it for his enjoyment after spending 485 days at home during the pandemic. Those who knew him well learned much. The wonder of cords, ropes, Frisbees, and Bubble wrap; the solace and joy in holding a hand, how unnecessary fluency with words or signs are to the art of communication. Family and friends learned to regard and respect the incredible man that David was. The trust he displayed in us we treasure. Against many odds, David lived beyond expectations, but lost the last battle. He did his best with what he was given. We admire his strength and determination. To his father, he was a hero. As well as family and friends, he had in his corner nurses Rachel and Jacqueline; and from NACL – the Dream Team – Abby, Barb, Jill and Kelsey, and many others he met during the last ten years; his Doctors Thorogood, Kennedy, and Evans from Norfolk, and Dr. House and the Team from the Tuberous Sclerosis Network, London Health Sciences, and Julie, PSW, who came to help David, only two weeks before David passed. These people are all remarkable, in that they all were caring and dedicated, not only to David's well-being, but to our entire family. Finally, to the Doctors and Nurses in Emergency and Intensive Care at Norfolk General Hospital, who provided compassionate care to David during his last 9 days, Thank You. Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life Service to honour David's memory will be held Sunday, June 12 at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 79, 200 West Street, Simcoe, Ontario, N3Y 4K8 from 1:00 to 5:00. A service will begin at 1:00. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Norfolk Association for Community Living, 644 Ireland Rd, Simcoe, Ontario N3Y 4K2. Serenity Burial and Cremation, Inc., 361 Main St. Port Dover (226) 290-9093 have been entrusted with the arrangements. Online condolences can be left at www.serenityburialandcremation.com