Neil Alexander Swainson passed peacefully into his maker’s care on Saturday February 21st, 2009, in his 90th year. Neil was born and raised in Victoria, B.C. and began his teaching career in Creston, B.C. He returned to Victoria where he taught at Victoria High School before moving to the Provincial Normal School and eventually the University of Victoria. Neil graduated from the University of British Columbia with a B.A., B.Ed., and M.A. in history and was awarded a Ph.D. in political science from Stanford University. Neil became the first political science professor at the University of Victoria where he continued to impact generations of Victorians. Neil authored several books including Conflict over the Columbia and along with colleagues, The Reins of Power. Neil was an advisor to both provincial and federal governments and spent over ten years as a municipal councillor in Oak Bay, his home for over 50 years. Neil was a lifelong member of First United Church, now First Metropolitan United Church. He was an active member of the community, a walker, a rugby fan, a teacher and a lifelong student. He will be greatly missed. Neil is survived by his loving wife Aldyth, his sons John (Linda, children: Alexa, Ian and Erica), Neil (wife Anna, son Luca), Andrew (Laura, children: Harris and Rachel), and Donald (Tracy, children: Alexander and Katherine). The family wishes to thank Dr. David Brook and the staff of James Bay Care Center, 2nd floor, for the excellent care they provided to Neil in his final years. A memorial service will be held at First Metropolitan United Church this Friday, the 27th of February at 2:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society, www.alzheimer.ca or telephone: 1-800-667-3742 or to First Metropolitan. Neil will be remembered as a gentle, principled, and courteous husband, father and friend.
27 Responses
Neil’s passing has left a personal and professional vacuum that no other person can ever fill. He was a consummate gentleman, a highly respected teacher and counsellor, and a loyal, cooperative, and supportive colleague. One of the finest of men graced our presence and left a positive personal and professional indelible mark that will never be erased.
Sincere condolences to the family.
Respectfully,
Arthur Kratzmann, former Professor and Dean of Education, U-Vic.
Dear Aldyth, John, Neil, Andrew and Don
We are very sad to hear about Neil and send you all our sympathy. We will always remember him as someone who was a strong family man who reached out with care to stay in touch with his wider family.
Takes care and much love
Rosie, Margie and Alex
Neil was an inspiration to generations of his students. His insight and enthusiasm were great gifts. I will always remember his energy, which was contagious. We are all better to have known him, and his legacy will live on for many years.
Kieran Bridge
I had the honour of working with Neil in the Political Science Department at U Vic. He was an example to us all: intensely interested in his subject, dedicated to his students, and genuinely concerned about everyone’s well-being. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Please accept my condolences at the passing of Neil Swainson. I knew him when he was a councillor in Oak Bay and one of my responsibilities as a reporter for the Victoria Daily Times was to cover the council and committee meetings. To this day I remember him as a kind, courteous and friendly person – a pleasure to have known, if briefly.
Roger Stonebanks
Aldyth,
I was so sad to hear about Neil. He was such an honourable person whos integrity was something to truly value. As one of his Council colleagues for many years, I particuarly appreciated this. I learned a lot from Neil, even when I didn’t agree with him. One of the things I so well remember is his intimate knowledge and care of Oak Bay’s special qualities. When we went out on site visits to look at applications to change existing dwellings, Neil knew the history of every house and who had lived there over the years. When people appeared before Council, inevitably there was someone he had taught at some stage of his career – an amazing contribution to so many. I know this is a sad time for you and your family, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Diana Butler
Aldyth,
I was so sad to hear about Neil. He was such an honourable person whos integrity was something to truly value. As one of his Council colleagues for many years, I particuarly appreciated this. I learned a lot from Neil, even when I didn’t agree with him. One of the things I so well remember is his intimate knowledge and care of Oak Bay’s special qualities. When we went out on site visits to look at applications to change existing dwellings, Neil knew the history of every house and who had lived there over the years. When people appeared before Council, inevitably there was someone he had taught at some stage of his career – an amazing contribution to fso many. I know this is a sad time for you and your family, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Diana Butler
Aldyth and family
Please accept my condolences on Neil’s passing. I remember him well from our weekly walks with the FirstMet summer strollers a couple of years ago and always enjoyed walking and talking with him. I know he will be missed.
David
My deepest sympathy for your loss. Please know that my thoughts are with you.
Please accept our deepest condolences on Neil’s passing.