David M. Bayne
With great sadness we announce the passing of David (Michael) Bayne of Banff, Alberta on March 10, 2022. The oldest of two children born to John Wilfrid Bayne and Jean MacLean on August 30, 1947, in Hamilton, Ontario.
David experienced a long and fulfilling career in the hospitality industry as a hotelier, serving 42 years with Canadian Pacific Hotels and Resorts, and Fairmont Hotels and Resorts. David’s first job in the Canadian Rockies was a houseman at the Canadian Pacific Banff Springs Hotel in 1966. During subsequent summers, he held positions as head houseman and head bellman. As the hotel transitioned to year-round, he worked in conventions, beverage, front office, rooms division, and as hotel manager. In 1989, he became the General Manager at Chateau Lake Louise until his retirement in 2008. His major career achievement and legacy was the mentorship of employees and the development of the meeting centre at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. David was recognized as a trusted collaborator by Parks Canada for the respect he showed towards the guardianship of Canada’s National Parks. During his tenure with both Canadian Pacific Hotels and Resorts and Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, David travelled internationally promoting the Canadian Rockies and tourism in Canada. Upon his retirement he served on the Travel Alberta Board of Directors from 2009 to 2013 contributing to its direction for global tourism development.
David carried himself in his personal life much like his professional life with dignity and integrity. He was known as a friend, mentor, and wise counsel to many and left an indelible mark on young professionals that came under his tutelage. Whether he was meeting kings, politicians, celebrities or one of the many guests of the hotels, David was always charming, savvy, and approachable. A skilled orator and raconteur, his humor was always tempered by his humanity for others.
As a history major, David appreciated the significance of the grand hotels of the Canadian Rockies and their place in Canada. This connection was amplified by both his father, who was born in Banff, and his grandfather who was the first schoolteacher in Banff. David was an innate guardian of the history of the Canadian Rockies.
David’s contribution to community was not limited to his professional life. He was a proud member of the SKAL Canadian Rockies for over 3 decades and was the Club’s President in 1993. He served on several Town of Banff committees such as the Council Compensation Review Committee, Development Appeal Board, and Municipal Planning Commission over a 12-year period. David also served for 12 years as a board member for the Association for Mountain Parks Protection and Enjoyment which advocates for responsible and open Park use.
David was an avid and passionate golfer who spent his golfing career chasing a second hole-in-one after, at the young age of 16, he achieved the pinnacle of golf success at the Calgary Golf and Country Club. Passionate about sports, David particularly enjoyed the camaraderie of his ‘boys’ winter golf trips to the southern US.
David is survived by his sister Beverley, brother-in-law Gerry, niece Kim, Kim’s husband Luke, and his grand niece Lexi. Loving and devoted husband to Lori Bayne of 15 years and furry father to Divot and Bogey. David’s family was small but mighty.
The family requests that those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to the Banff Mineral Springs Hospital, P.O. Box 1050, Banff, AB T1L 1H7.
David was the consummate gentleman and a friend to all and will be greatly missed.
