David Stirling

STIRLING, David December 8, 1920 - August 11, 2018 With much sadness, the family of David Stirling announces his peaceful passing in Victoria, B.C., on Saturday, August 11, 2018, at the age of 97. David was predeceased by his parents, David and Margaret Stirling (nee Paisley), his brother Jack (1945), sisters Jean Cocke (2001), Peggy Shield (2004), and Pat Richards (2008) and in 2002 by his wife Ruth Stirling (nee Carter). Left to cherish his memory are his daughter Trish Stirling, her husband Cyril Barnard, grandchildren Siobhan Barnard (Jonas Bjarnason) and Rory Barnard, nephew and niece David and Janis Richards and their families, nieces Trish Richards and Caitlin Croteau, and David's companion Barbara Begg. David grew up on a homestead near Athabasca, Alberta. As a young boy he developed a keen interest in nature, from butterflies and clouds to birds and botany. His passion for travel and the natural world remained with him and guided the course of his life. David served overseas during World War II with the Canadian Army. He was chosen to attend Sandhurst Royal Military College and graduated First Lieutenant. Post war, David and Ruth spent two years travelling around the world as documented in his 2008 book, Birds, Beasts, and a Bike Under the Southern Cross. David never lost his love of travel and adventure and by the end of his life had seen much of the world. David made significant contributions to his community through his work in nature interpretation with British Columbia Parks and various other organizations including the Victoria Natural History Society, of which he was an honorary life member. Over the years David led numerous nature tours to locations all over the globe. He mentored and inspired many throughout his life and received a number of accolades including the Queen's Jubilee Medal in 2002. David will be best remembered for his love of life, his spirited sense of humor, his caring ways with his grandchildren, his enthusiasm for birds, and his ability to entertain his family and friends with wonderful stories from his youth and his travels. The family would like to express heartfelt thanks to all those who cared for David during his last weeks, with special thanks to Saanich Community Health Nurses, Kelly and Susan, and Care Worker, Jennifer for their kind and compassionate care. David, you lived your life to the fullest. We shall miss you so very much. A Celebration of Life will be held at Sands Funeral Chapel, 1803 Quadra Street, Victoria, B.C., on September 22, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. Reception to follow. Private interment. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Victoria Hospice.