DR. DAVID GILLEN

Dr. David Gillen, Emeritus Professor at the Sauder School of Business, University of British Columbia, passed away on October 31, 2024, at the age of 77, following a courageous battle with a severe blood infection contracted while sailing on Georgian Bay. David's remarkable journey began in St. Catharines, Ontario, where he grew up with his parents, Dr. Charles and Joan Gillen; brother, Paul; and sister, Margaret. Summers at the family cottage on Lake Temagami ignited his passions for sailing, flying and adventure, and fostered a self-reliant spirit that would be a driving force throughout his life. He studied at the University of New Brunswick, where he met his former wife, Ann Marie, and welcomed their daughter, Andraya. He earned his PhD from the University of Toronto, launching an academic career that took the family across North America. It began at the University of Alberta, where his son, Andrew, was born, then continued on to Waterloo, where he taught at Wilfrid Laurier for many years, and later to California at UC Berkley. Living in Ontario, David shared his love of flight with Andrew when they flew together in his self-built Piper Super Cub, creating unforgettable memories in the skies. After his separation, David's consulting work brought him to Germany, where he found deep love and lifelong devotion in his wife, Heidi, an airport marketing executive. Together they moved to Vancouver, where their love took off like a plane destined for the skies and David accepted the YVR Chair at UBC's Sauder School of Business. Over the years, his drive and determination evolved toward service and mentorship. During his term as Chair for the Transport and Logistics division, he was able to give back to the institution he held in such high regard. David was a world-renowned expert in aviation and logistics, whose extensive publications shaped academic research and policy in Canada and internationally. Known for his strong work ethic, he consumed numerous international newspapers before sunrise, always staying at the forefront of industry developments. His leadership roles included serving as Director of the Center for Transportation Studies and principal investigator for a green shipping grant through SSHRC. Recently, he accepted a board position with BC Rail, looking forward to making a direct impact, and was awarded the R.S. Day Outstanding Contribution Trophy, celebrating his dedication to excellence and innovation in the field. David's legacy is also deeply felt in his personal life. He passed on his athleticism to his grandchildren, Boston and Harley, of whom he was immensely proud, and his scientific mind and love for teaching to his daughter, Andraya, and son, Andrew. Sailing the Great Lakes was a cherished tradition, allowing him to enjoy the water, tinker on the boat and reconnect with his siblings, Margie and Paul. Many happy summers were spent sailing and making memories with Heidi, Andrew and Lindsey. He held a profound belief in the power of education as the ultimate investment – portable and forever untaxed. A mentor and guide to many, he shared his wisdom and fostered the potential in others. He thought of himself as "a simple academic," but his pioneering work led to global collaborations and opportunities that shaped the industry and created lasting solutions. While travel brought excitement and discovery, he was equally content riding his bike every day to the university. He is survived by his beloved wife, Heidi; his daughter, Andraya (Randy); grandchildren, Boston and Harley; his son, Andrew (Lindsey); his sister, Margaret (David); his brother, Paul (Susan); and a worldwide network of remarkable colleagues, friends, and students. His wisdom, curiosity, and profound belief in human potential live on in those he inspired. A celebration of his life will take place in the spring of 2025.