Story by C. Richard Campbell with Gerry Goddard's notes
Photographs: Unsure of origin
Changeover Meeting
Capital 33, Delhi, On.
June 18, 2024
Your first impression of Dave Seeley is that, this is a steel company executive. On closer examination, you notice a twinkle in his eye. But this man possesses an invaluable ability at fundraising. An ability recognized in Ontario, Canada and the northern Unites states. As a Rotarian, you recognize the strong sense of volunteering and dedication to community service. He is also one of the most well-informed men that I know about community events.
Dave Seely's Life as a Steel-making Executive and Service
Raised in Montreal, an Graduate of Concordia University, he joined Stelco, Montreal in 1957. In 1960, he transferred to Stelco, Hamilton as an assistant Sales Manager then to the Production Planning Department.
Along the way, Dave and Joyce his wife, had 3 children. By 1986, Dave had worked in all production units in Hamilton including IT Management.
It was in Hamilton when Dave was noticed for his fundraising abilities. His first fundraiser was for handicapped children at the Dundas Golf Club, he then became active in the Canadian Cancer Society and held the title of President for the whole lower city of
Hamilton.
Past President Gerry Goddard presents the Paul Harris Fellow Award to his friend Dave Seely
With assistance from the Royal Bank and Dofasco, he bumped the annual take from $45,000 to $150,000. As word spread, he was asked to share his fundraising talents with the St. Louis, Chicago and St. Paul’s local cancer societies and became V P at the Hamilton unit of the Canadian Cancer Society.
His fundraising ability caught the attention of Charlie Jaravinski and it was with his assistance that he headed up the greater Hamilton Canadian Cancer Society.
He was transferred to the Lake Erie Works in 1986 and then became president of the Canadian Cancer Society for 4 years in Norfolk County.
He was involved heavily with the Norfolk General Hospital Golf tournaments that for 15 years where he helped to raise $1,000,000 for the hospital, including $250,000 in its 25thannual year.
He also chaired the committee for putting a new roof on Trinity Anglican Church in Simcoe.
The Paul Harris Fellow Award is the highest form of recognition that a Rotary Club can award. We are honored to have him join us as a Paul Harris Fellow.