Neville Ernest Gibson died peacefully at Royal Jubilee Hospital on Wednesday, 23rd August at the age of 88. Neville is survived by his loving wife Jill (Angela); daughters Nancy and Lucinda; sister Gloria; grandchildren Max, Isobel, Liam and Miranda, and his ever-faithful poodle, Pixie.
Born is 1929 in Liverpool, England, Neville was educated at Calday Grange Grammar School, and after graduating from The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors in London, he and Jill came to Canada in 1956. In Vancouver, he joined the Canadian subsidiary of the Grosvenor Estate (the family company of the Duke of Westminster), eventually becoming Chairman and CEO of Grosvenor International Holdings, which operated in Canada, the U.S. and Australia. He retired in 1989 after 30 years with Grosvenor.
Neville was a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, a former Director of Barclays Bank of Canada, a past President of the Canadian Institute of Public Real Estate Companies, and also served as a Chairman of Crofton House School in Vancouver.
After his retirement and a move to Victoria, Neville became an ardent supporter of the Victoria Symphony Society serving as a director for six years. He enjoyed memberships in the Royal Victoria Yacht Club, Uplands Probus Club, the Sir Winston Churchill Society, and the Royal Overseas League in London, England. As a lifelong Sailor who loved the sea, Neville spent many adventurous hours boating in the endlessly changing local waters.
After a private cremation, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, a donation in Neville’s memory to Victoria Hospice Society or the SPCA’s Animal Cruelty Campaign would be very much appreciated.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
15 Responses
Dear Jill and family,
We are so very saddened at the news of Neville’s passing. Neville has been such a big part of the Victora Symphony for so many years, with all his energy, generous support and good humour. It was always so wonderful to see Neville walking into a concert or event with a smile and good humour. On behalf of the Victoria Symphony’s board, musicians, staff and volunteers we pass along our sincere condolences to Jill and the family.
Dear Jill,
I am so very sorry to learn of Neville’s passing. I so enjoyed our “dog” chats during my volunteer years with the Victoria Symphony Guild. And it was such a joy to work with him, for his charm, keen intelligence, along with his wonderful sense of humour kept us focused, and entertained, as we prepared for special events.
A true gentleman!
My thoughts are with you and your family.
Very sad to read of Neville’s passing. His generosity of spirit, open, and charming humour and honesty were wonderful. A very fine man indeed to be remembered.
My deep condolences to you Jill, and to your family.
John Neal
I am deeply saddened to learn of Neville’s passing. He was one of the most gracious men I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. He was always generous and attentive to everyone he encountered. I have always been impressed with his elegant spirit and am inspired to follow his lead.
My heart goes out to Jill and family.
My sincere sympathy to Jill and family. It was a true pleasure knowing Neville and he was always a gentleman. He will be missed.
Jean Haley
A former traveller with UVic to the Stratford and Niagara Theatres with both Jill and Neville and such pleasant memories.