Francis Stuart Somerville

Francis Somerville Obituary

Francis Stuart Somerville February 25, 1945 - September 15, 2014 Francis Stuart Somerville, the dad that could do everything, died September 15 2014 in Vancouver. Stuart was predeceased by his parents, Henry Lamont Somerville and Francis Mary (Riddoch) Somerville, and brother Robert Henry Somerville. Family left to morn are brother Graham Lamont Somerville; adored only daughter Erin Louise Francis MacWilliam; beloved son-in-law and golf partner Reece Jeremy MacWilliam; former wife Diana Jill Somerville; and Nephew Tsur Somerville, wife Bethany, and children Tamir and Ya'ira. A true (West) Vancouverite, Stuart was born at VGH and attended Pauline Johnson Elementary and Inglewood Jr. High before graduating from West Vancouver High in 1961. Stuart graduated from UBC Metallurgical Engineering in 1967. Any pranks that might have occurred during his UBC tenure are unrelated. A pipeline engineer of staggering intelligence, Stuart worked for Trans Canada Pipelines in Toronto, Petro Canada in Calgary, and Trans Mountain Pipelines in Vancouver before joining BioGas Industries. He then became the President and CEO of EcoWaste Industries until his retirement in 2010. Stuart was dizzyingly active throughout his life. He was a car rally navigator; marathon runner; squash and tennis player; golfer; mountain climber and hiker; cross-country and downhill skier; computer programmer; photographer; woodworker; stained glass maker; fit fella; Moorecroft pottery collector; kilt wearer; and Scottish Country and Old-time dancer. An avid opera and classical music lover, Stuart often embarrassed his daughter by playing Wagner at full volume when dropping her off at school. As a dedicated synchro and softball dad, he spent many early mornings and late nights chauffeuring Erin and her teammates to practices, meets, and tournaments all over BC, an occupation responsible for his in-depth knowledge of the Spice Girl's musical canon. With the help of neurosurgeons Dr. Peter Gooderham and Dr. Julia Sharma at VGH, and Dr. Roy Mah at the BCCA, Stuart fought brain cancer for a full year in order to see Erin graduate from UBC with her PhD, an achievement he never failed to tell every caregiver and visitor about. Stuart's family is thankful for the amazing staff at Crofton Manor and the supportive and chocolate-bearing friends who visited in his final months. Donations to the BC Cancer Foundation, Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada, or Vancouver Opera are appreciated.

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Published by Vancouver Sun and/or The Province from Oct. 17 to Oct. 18, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Francis Somerville

6 Entries

June 16, 2015

Just realized my penpal Stuart has passed on to the next life. I am speechless. I had no idea. He was a light in the dark for me in my time of need... a comfort as a true friend without judgement, a kind soul. We met briefly. We danced once or twice and now my friend.. I hope you are dancing, hiking and listeing to opera wherever you are. Namaste.

Laurie Henry

January 22, 2015

To Stuart's daughter Erin
I was sad to hear of your dad's passing. Stuart was a friend of mine at West Vancouver High. I remember him as exceptionally bright, lots of fun, and a very decent person......a winning combination. I am sure he was a wonderful dad.
I am so sorry for your loss.
Laurie Henry (Wheeler)

Emy Lai

October 20, 2014

Deepest condolence to Stuart's family. I know Stuart through work. Stuart is a tender-hearted and likeable person who care about other people. He will be missed.

Alan Ross

October 17, 2014

Stu was an esteemed member of his graduating class of metallurgical engineers at UBC. Several of us have gathered together two or three times together over the last five or six years (after 40+ years!) - for golf, a beer and reminiscing. Stu was always a pleasure to be with - so enthusiastic about everything. His death is a real shock, and he will be sorely missed.

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Nicole Kohnert

October 17, 2014

It was with a very sad heart that I learned of Stuart's passing and that he had been battling cancer. I spent many meetings enjoying Stuart's company and always marvelled at his vast knowledge and creative practicality. We shared an interest in managing solid waste properly and economically through the Solid Waste Association of North America BC Chapter, and also as we sat on opposite sides of the table on licensing issues. I loved his worldliness and self confidence as well as his self awareness. He will definitely be missed. My thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.
Blessings to you all.
Nicole

Monica Brown

October 17, 2014

Dear Erin,

My deepest condolences go out to you and your family as you grieve your father's passing. He was a remarkable man. From how you spoke about him over the years, I could tell you two shared a special bond.

With love,

Mono

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