William Carleton Gibson

GIBSON, William Carleton C.M., M.D., D.Sc., F.R.C.P.(C.) 1913 2009 Raised in Victoria, William Carleton Gibson attended Victoria College in the early days when it was housed in Craigdarroch Castle. His lifelong pursuit of learning led him on to the University of British Columbia, Oxford, McGill, high-altitude medical research in the RCAF during WWII, and the Montreal Neurological Institute. He returned to UBC in 1949 as a professor and researcher, and finally retired from the post of Chancellor of his beloved University of Victoria in 1995. He maintained an active involvement with all of these institutions for the rest of his life, contributing energy, ideas and, often, raising important funds from public and foundation sources for their continued development. An original member of the Faculty of Medicine at UBC, he worked tirelessly for the faculty as well as for the overall university, eventually becoming its leading fundraiser. Dr. Bill" was recognized during his lifetime for his generosity of time, his commitment to higher education everywhere, his involvement in many public projects and his work in the fields of neurological research and history of medicine. At the same time, he managed to serve several terms as Alderman and Parks Commissioner for the City of Vancouver. He wore his Order of Canada received in 2002 with pride, an honour witnessed by his brother Jim, another holder of the Order of Canada. Will and Jim were believed to have been the only two brothers in Canada to hold the Order at the same time! When the term weekend warrior" entered common usage, we knew it must be referring to our father. For many years he worked all week in his usual outfit of white lab coat and tie, then on the weekends would don his overalls and head to Bowyer Island, and later Bowen, to break rock, chop wood, clear bush and harness interesting and largely useless bits of driftwood as they floated by. WCG loved to participate in meetings, causes, and social affairs and was frequently asked to deliver a speech at an event. The ten books he authored -the last of which was published in 2007 during a still-active life -are just one of the many legacies he leaves to us. In recent months his failing body challenged him at every turn, but his mind remained cleat and his determination to maintain his independence never wavered. At 95, he was interesting and interested, witty and loving. He was handwriting letters and mailing them to points near and far right to the end. William Gibson died in dignity at home in Victoria in the early hours of July 4, with his children close by. David and Lynda, Ian and Mary, Kate and Al will carry many Willie" stories with them to share with proud granddaughters Avril and Leslie (Monty) and energetic great-grandson Austin, and his innumerable friends. We ask you to join us in celebration of his remarkable life: in Victoria at Emmanuel Baptist Church on Saturday July 18 at 2:00 PM, and in Vancouver at Point Grey Baptist Church on Friday July 17 at 2:00 PM. Receptions following. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the WISH Drop-In Centre Society in his name, at #515 119 West Pender Street Vancouver BC V6B 1S7. 550546