Hans has left us to explore the alpine meadows in heaven, correcting the misnamed plants and finding unknown species. Having spent his early years growing up in the shadows of the Alps, he was passionate about plants and mountains all his life.
In 1965, Hans’ life path was shaped by a mountaineering expedition to Afghanistan. In 1967 a call from Marc Bell in Canada offering work as a research assistant at the new University of Victoria changed his path again. He signed up for one year, but he never left Victoria.
Hans’ kind, generous, and adventurous spirit will be remembered by future generations of professionals, friends, and family who have benefited from his knowledge and mentorship over the years. In his life he published a native plant guide and was honoured to have a native grass named after him (Festuca roemeri). Hans leaves behind a legacy of research, stewardship, and leadership in protecting rare ecosystems… as well a special alpine rock garden.
He will be missed by his family: his wife Heidi, son Markus (Emily van Lidth de Jeude), daughter Julia (Keith Davies) and grandchildren Taliesin, Rhiannon and Evan, as well as his siblings in Germany and the family labradoodle Mädi.
The family wishes to thank Hans’ doctors and the compassionate and dedicated team of palliative and hospice care givers. Instead of flowers, please consider a donation to the Marc Bell Scholarship in Environmental Studies at UVic. https://extrweb.uvic.ca/donate/marc-bell
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Horticulture Centre Of The Pacific, 505 Quayle Rd, Victoria, BC on May 10th, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
This obituary is the property of the “Roemer” family and may not be reproduced, distributed, or altered in any way without prior written consent.
14 Responses
I had the opportunity to meet Hans several years ago and seeing his passion for conservation and identifying species helped inspire me to continue pursuing botany. His book is also an excellent resource. He will be missed.
Dear Heidi and family
Joyce Lee wrote so beautifully about Hans and how he supported all of us amateur botanists and activists with his time and patience to get the Garry Oak Meadow preservation society going. He was always so kind and patient as tried to learn our grasses. He has left so much of his love for this province in the hearts of others. The day he died I was walking with Tara on Christmas Hill where I first met him. I’m sure he was there that day pointing out his fescue. Much love Briony
My sincere condolences to the family. I have many fond memories of time spent in Hans’s company. Most recently, I had a chance to spend time with him as he shared some of his vast knowledge of native plants with Botany BC participants in Nanaimo a few years ago. His gentle ways, passion for the natural world and extensive knowledge were appreciated by all. Hans will be greatly missed.
Heidi and family,
Was saddened to learn of Han’s passing. Hopefully it was peaceful and pain free. A gentle, quiet man who modeled all the best human qualities. Heidi, I think of you often whenever I see your clay garden gnome in the garden and dust the singing girl sculture on our piano. You will miss your life partner and know you and your family are held in my heart … Take care.