David Boyle Obituary

I first met David when he was campaigning a lovely sable bitch Arklethill Helena and we often stood together in many classes. One of the nicest people I have met, especially in the show ring and his wicked sense of humour endeared him to many. He took his wins, and defeats, in exceptional good manner  and was often the first to congratulate his fellow exhibitors should they beat him!

Wee Davey as we came to know him, was born in Glasgow in April 1964, the youngest of seven, comprising 4 boys and 3 girls. His first job having left school was in a Children’s Nursery for the Social Works Department where he brought fun and laughter to all the young people he met. He then joined British Midland as part of the cabin crew and later moved to British Airways. Leaving BA he returned to voluntary work at the Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice in Glasgow and was quickly offered full time work. David looked after end of care patients and huis compassion, empathy and kindness gave great comfort to patients and families. Sadly, due to own ill health he had to leave the hospice.

In his spare time, David had a small kennel, based in Scotland and was very circumspect as to those he kept or sold to others. He knew where he was going and such a shame that someone, who was so friendly and honest should be lost to the Collie world and general dogdom
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His first champion was Arklethill Helena, a sable bitch, born in 2016 and sired by Ch Beldones Double Diamond out of Samhaven Timeless (Ch Carriswillow Riot at Samhaven ex Samhaven Springtime). She won her first CC from Jo Hodges when David made the long journey down to Paignton in 2019, followed quickly by a 2nd CC over the water at Irish Collie when Sheila Telford (Glenbowdene) judged and gained her crown in a very emotional day from Derek Smith at Collie Association the same year.

From one of his early litters, he sold another bitch to Tony & Daphne Iley who also became good friends. This was Ch Arklethill Delilah at Ileyda, one I recall placing well as a puppy at Crufts. She was sired by Ch Chelborn Kiss’n’Tell out of his first Champion girl. She won her CC’s at Collie Club of Wales from Brian Hawkins (Beldones), her 2nd from Robin Blaikie at Scottish and her crown from Mike Vincent at Birmingham National.

David was not one to produce multiple litters, as his health had deteriorated to allow this,  but one interesting fact, Arklethill Ava, was a registered Pets as Therapy dog and visited the hospital on a weekly basis she was a daughter of Ch Helena and proved to be a very popular visitor to the hospital.
To all his friends and family, especially to his sister Connie, family and close friends, we extend our sincere thoughts and remember David with warmth and affection.

Funeral details are as follows - Wednesday 17th July 12.30 at Craigton Cemetery, Cardonald Glasgow, G52 1SJ.

Carole Smedley
(Antoc)

email: ca.antoc@btinternet.com