Richard Stace-Smith

Richard Stace-Smith obituary

Richard Stace-Smith

Richard Stace-Smith Obituary

Published by Vancouver Sun and/or The Province on Jan. 21, 2017.
Richard Stace-Smith May 2, 1924 - January 17, 2017 Dr. Richard (Dick) Stace-Smith passed away peacefully on January 17, 2017. He was born May, 2 1924 in Creston BC, and lived there until he pursued his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture at UBC and PhD at Oregon State University. He worked as a research plant pathologist specializing in viruses with Agriculture Canada for 39 years. In 1999, he was honoured with the Order of British Columbia for his leadership to protect biodiversity and to conserve the environment for future generations. He was recognized and respected for his roles with Vancouver Natural History Society, BC Naturalists' Foundation, VanDusen Botanical Garden, Brock House Society and Fraser River Coalition among others. His love of nature and travel took him worldwide. Around his West Point Grey neighbourhood, he will be remembered for his fruitful and productive garden which he generously shared with all. Dick was pre-deceased by his wife of 64 years, Joan, in May 2015 and survived by brother Art and sister June. His gentle and understanding nature will be missed by his four children Donna (Brian) Underhill, John (Tine), Peter (Diane) and Julia (Justin) Tee, his 9 grandchildren Blair, Kevin, Rob (Heather), Maja (Jeff), Edila, Darren (Amy), Jordan (Athina), Emily and Sydney, along with his 5 great grandchildren Rebekah, Madisyn, Eli, Lydia and Quinn. Special thanks to Crofton Manor and VGH staff. His Celebration of Life will be held on February 4, 2017 at West Point Grey United Church at 2 pm. Please consider donations to VanDusen Botanical Garden or Heart and Stroke Foundation.

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February 24, 2017

John Stevenson posted to the memorial.

February 6, 2017

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February 5, 2017

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15 Entries

John Stevenson

February 24, 2017

I was so very saddened to hear of Dick's passing. As a young summer student in Summerland and later, as his graduate student, I recall his scientific research excellence, his thoughtful guidance and, most importantly, his kind and generous spirit. I had the pleasure recently of reconnecting with Dick on two occasions at Crofton Manor for coffee and chat about the old days. I am so pleased I had that opportunity!

February 6, 2017

I want to thank the family for the moving and insighful celebration of life for Dick Stace-Smith. I had the pleasure of working with Dick during his environmental volunteering with the Fraser River Coalition, and also met him at several Vancouver Natural History functions. With his calming, personal and thoughtful guidance he was one of pillars of wisdom in the group. He will be missed not only for this natural leadership skills, but also for being a truly nice person. Thanks once again for sharing some stories of his life with us. Gary Williams, Professional Wetland Scientist, Coquitlam, B.C.

February 5, 2017

Colleen Bayus and Les Shewchuk So sorry he will be missed by all who new him

Angela & George McWhirter

February 4, 2017

Our condolences go to all of Richard Stace-Smith, Dick's family and especially to our lovely neighbours,Julia and the Tee's. It was obvious when one met Dick how much he delighted in plants. His interest and energy was legendary. We will think of him as we tend to our raspberries. What a legacy he leaves!

February 1, 2017

So sorry to hear of Dicks passing. A part of our lives through through WPG couples club and onward. He will be missed but many fond memories remain. Thinking of you all at this time of sadness. The Dennett family.

Peter Bristow

January 30, 2017

I will remember Dick as a colleague, mentor and friend. He found fun in all that he did.

January 29, 2017

Dick was an intellect, a forward thinker in his many field and a very fine man. Our circles go back many years, including our wives. He has left an impressive legacy. Sympathies to his families.
- Cliff Ware and Shary (Watt) Stephen

January 26, 2017

Our sympathies go out you and yours.
Dick was one of the good ones. I remember as a little kid in the summertime, when everyone came and stayed in the orchard and the cabin.
Dick was always calm, cool, and collected.
He will be missed by all, and again, our
deepest sympathies.

Dave Stace-Smith & Sharlette
Charlotte Stace-Smith

Steve Haber

January 24, 2017

I remember Dick for his patience, kindness and guidance in helping many young scientists take their first faltering steps. He wore his great experience and knowledge lightly, and so encouraged and gave others confidence to try on the mantle he wore so well.

LIZ SWEENEY

January 24, 2017

WE ALL INCLUDING ME,FROM AGRICULTURE RESEARCH STATION, HAVE GOOD MEMORIES OF DICK STACE-SMITH.
MAY HE REST IN PEACE.

LIZ SWEENEY

January 24, 2017

Thank you Dick for all the help and understanding you provided to me as a student and colleague...you will me missed...never forgotten!
Sincerely
Len Ward

Kelly Sekhon

January 23, 2017

It was my great pleasure to know Dick Stace-Smith. He traveled to India with me in 1996 and 1999. We celebrated his 75th birthday in a small village in Sikkim a few days before the start of our trek to Goecha La at about 16,000 feet above sea level. Our local guide was very impressed by Dick's ability to hike to that elevation. I had difficulty keeping up with Dick - 25 year younger than him.

My sincere condolences to the family and friends.

January 23, 2017

Wonderful memories of a great brother and friend. Will miss you forever Dick. June

Bill Peters

January 23, 2017

Dick was a great man,a real gentleman & always a pleasure to meet. As Berry Specialist for BC, I respected his knowledge & major contribution to berry virus knowledge. My sympathy to the Family - may your memories of happier times & remembering his great legacy bring comfort & peace in the years ahead.

Brenda Miller

January 23, 2017

We will miss him forever at all the family functions especially at the Reunions, love you Uncle Dick your family will miss you!

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February 24, 2017

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February 6, 2017

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February 5, 2017

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