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
My husband (Alan Insley) worked with Neil on the Board of Chown Place and had the greatest respect for him. It is interesting to learn more about this very capable man. Our society has been blessed. My sincere condolences .
Dear Mrs. Swainson (Aldyth) and Family: I was so sorry to learn of Neil’s passing. You may not remember me but my late parents, Bob and Dorothy Niven, knew Neil so well. I remember that when Mom died almost 13 years ago, Neil came around to the house on Monterey Ave. to offer his condolences in person. What a thoughtful thing to do. I know my Dad was very appreciative of his kindness. The world is a little poorer without such a fine man amongst us.
Trudie (Niven) Carrier
I had the pleasure of being one of the many students that Dr. Swainson taught in the 1970’s. His passion and ability as both an academic and more so as a teacher was evident to all. A true gentleman and scholar.
I met Neil many years before joining the UVic faculty as the professor of local government in the Public Administration program. I was proud to continue his work in local government and he became a very valued friend and colleague.
My condolences to his family for the loss of such a fine friend and person. He and his work will always be remembered and appreciated.
Bob Bish
Our heartfelt sympathy, Aldyth, on Neil’s passing. We appreciate the years we spent talking to you both over the fence, or running into you both in later years.
Mike and Joan Hall-Patch
Our heartfelt sympathy, Aldyth, on Neil’s passing. We appreciate the years we spent talking to you both “over the fence” or when we met in the later years.
“O, what a noble mind is here o’erthrown” …
Mike and Joan Hall-Patch
Aldyth
I wish to express my deepest sympathy to you and your family on the passing of such a kind, honest and generous person as your husband Neil Swainson. I had the priviledge of knowing him for many years when we worked to-gether on the board of the Gorge View Society . His integrity and dedication to helping those in need was an inspiration to me and other Board members. I will always remember him.
Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dear Don
So sorry to hear of the passing of your Dad, my condolences to you and your family from Lena and I.
Best wishes
Frank
So sorry to read of Neil’s passing.
We are so sorry we will not be able to attend the service.
Our prayers are with you.
Dianne