David Caines

It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected, yet peaceful passing of David Caines on Saturday, July 15th at St. Joseph’s Hospital. David was born July 26, 1949, in Saint John and was a dedicated husband to Sandra (Harling); together, they navigated life's challenges and joys, building a legacy of love and devotion and a fierce commitment to living their best lives.  Father to Donny and Darlene Caines, stepfather to Sarah Barber and Ally Zelward (Brandon), and proud grandfather to baby Jace Zelward, who made David’s world a better place as he battled Parkinson’s disease. One of David’s lifelong dreams was to reunite with his birth family and in 2017 that dream came true. David and his siblings, sister Ruth and brother Ronny Goodine struck up a deep and meaningful relationship and quickly became inseparable.  David will be sadly missed by his brother and sister in-law, Charlie Harling and Debbie Rathwell – he has left a lasting mark on the hearts and lives of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

David devoted 41 years to the betterment of our community as a Saint John Police Officer, in various capacities ranging from Patrol, Drug Enforcement, and had a particular passion for Family Protection where he met the love of his life, Sandra. Together they were a force for good in our community. David was a gentle soul with a huge heart and a kindness that he shared with everyone he met. He was an avid motorcyclist with an obsession for Harley’s and the open road, and he loved nothing more than the opportunity to go cruising with Sandra. We feel comfort knowing that he is now cruising the sky highway up in the heavens with his fellow bike enthusiasts. David also loved to take his rod and reel and fish for the elusive ‘big one’ and had a special place in his heart for animals of all kinds.

David was predeceased by his birth mom, Lena Goodine, his adoptive parents, Eliza and William Caines, and his beloved mother-in-law, Ann Harling.

Arrangements are entrusted to Fundy Funeral Home, 230 Westmorland Road, Saint John, NB. A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, July 19, 2023, from 3:00 – 6:00 pm at Fundy Funeral Home. Donations in David’s memory may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation of NB or the Alzheimer Society of NB or the charity of the donor’s choice.