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Harold Eidsvik Obituary
Harold "Hal" Eidsvik - devoted father, husband, and tireless champion of nature -signed off on his final adventure on March 3rd, 2025, at home in Sidney, BC.
Born on July 4th, 1932, in Prince Rupert, BC (fireworks ever since), Hal spent his life preserving the beauty of the natural world and reminding everyone why it mattered. Hal and his late Malvina had been long time residents of North Saanich, moving to the Island in 1997. Hal had been a member at the Ardmore Golf Course ever since.
Hal was a proud graduate of the 1958 Forestry class at UBC and Planning graduate of University of Michigan (and forever football fan of the Wolverines).
Hal's career was a masterclass in stewardship, from shaping Canada's national parks (including Pacific Rim, Nahanni, Kluane, Grasslands, Gros Morne National Parks) to leading global conservation efforts with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and World Heritage Sites (UNESCO). He led the effort to have Banff, Jasper, Yoho and Kootenay National Parks designated as World Heritage sites list along with Assiniboine and Mt Robson Provincial Parks. His dedication earned him the Canadian Geographic Medal of Honour, though he probably would've told you the real prize was just getting to do the work he loved. We are lucky that he recorded his adventures in his memoir "More Than a Walk in the Woods - a Life Dedicated to parks and Protected Areas".
Beyond his professional legacy, Hal knew how to have a good time. He played golf last month, skied well into his eighties, continued to travel the world and delivered Dad jokes with unwavering confidence - regardless of audience reaction. He savoured good food, great company, and a well-timed punchline.
Hal leaves behind a family who adored him: his children Kristine (Tom Couture), Bruce (Kate), and Karen (Mark Majszak); grandchildren Jessica McNally, Alex McNally, Sarah Lafreniere, Elaine Remus, Louise Remus, Bjorn Eidsvik, Ella Eidsvik, Terje Eidsvik; and great-grandson Jonah Diamond. He now reunites with his beloved Malvina, his partner of over 57 years, and grandson Andrew Remus, surely swapping stories and keeping an eye on us from the best seats in the house.
In his book Hal closes with some wisdom for his grandchildren: "remember that Grandpa was always an optimist, believed in sharing and loved a good story."
Hal's family is grateful for all the support he and they received over the past few months, especially Chuck Ibbotson, Chris Dion, all the medical team and the palliative care team.
A memorial service will be held at 11 am on April 26th, 2025 at St. Elizabeth's Church in Sidney, BC, followed by a celebration at the Ardmore Golf Course.
Hal's legacy lives on in every breathtaking landscape he fought to protect and in the countless lives he touched - with kindness, wisdom, and a perfectly timed groaner.
Born on July 4th, 1932, in Prince Rupert, BC (fireworks ever since), Hal spent his life preserving the beauty of the natural world and reminding everyone why it mattered. Hal and his late Malvina had been long time residents of North Saanich, moving to the Island in 1997. Hal had been a member at the Ardmore Golf Course ever since.
Hal was a proud graduate of the 1958 Forestry class at UBC and Planning graduate of University of Michigan (and forever football fan of the Wolverines).
Hal's career was a masterclass in stewardship, from shaping Canada's national parks (including Pacific Rim, Nahanni, Kluane, Grasslands, Gros Morne National Parks) to leading global conservation efforts with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and World Heritage Sites (UNESCO). He led the effort to have Banff, Jasper, Yoho and Kootenay National Parks designated as World Heritage sites list along with Assiniboine and Mt Robson Provincial Parks. His dedication earned him the Canadian Geographic Medal of Honour, though he probably would've told you the real prize was just getting to do the work he loved. We are lucky that he recorded his adventures in his memoir "More Than a Walk in the Woods - a Life Dedicated to parks and Protected Areas".
Beyond his professional legacy, Hal knew how to have a good time. He played golf last month, skied well into his eighties, continued to travel the world and delivered Dad jokes with unwavering confidence - regardless of audience reaction. He savoured good food, great company, and a well-timed punchline.
Hal leaves behind a family who adored him: his children Kristine (Tom Couture), Bruce (Kate), and Karen (Mark Majszak); grandchildren Jessica McNally, Alex McNally, Sarah Lafreniere, Elaine Remus, Louise Remus, Bjorn Eidsvik, Ella Eidsvik, Terje Eidsvik; and great-grandson Jonah Diamond. He now reunites with his beloved Malvina, his partner of over 57 years, and grandson Andrew Remus, surely swapping stories and keeping an eye on us from the best seats in the house.
In his book Hal closes with some wisdom for his grandchildren: "remember that Grandpa was always an optimist, believed in sharing and loved a good story."
Hal's family is grateful for all the support he and they received over the past few months, especially Chuck Ibbotson, Chris Dion, all the medical team and the palliative care team.
A memorial service will be held at 11 am on April 26th, 2025 at St. Elizabeth's Church in Sidney, BC, followed by a celebration at the Ardmore Golf Course.
Hal's legacy lives on in every breathtaking landscape he fought to protect and in the countless lives he touched - with kindness, wisdom, and a perfectly timed groaner.
Published by Victoria Times Colonist from Mar. 22 to Mar. 24, 2025.
Memories and Condolences
for Harold Eidsvik
Sponsored by the Victoria Times Colonist.
3 Entries
John Ibbotson
March 25, 2025
Our hearts go out to Hal´s family during this tough time. I enjoyed playing golf with him, his humour and friendship with my Dad, who I know will miss their Friday night get togethers.
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