Born in Fredericton, New Brunswick, Philip lived to see much of the world from a young age. Growing up in a military family, he had experienced life from coast to coast within Canada as well as living abroad in Europe for several years. Driven by his natural curiosity of the world and immense work ethic, Philip pursued a fulfilling career in academia where he substantially contributed to the field of neuroscience as a PhD student at the University of British Columbia, postdoctoral fellow at Max Plank Institute, Germany, and scientist at the University of Calgary and University of North Carolina at Greensboro. He returned to Ottawa to work at the National Research Council before moving to Tokyo, Japan, where he thrived as a Science & Technology Councillor at the Embassy of Canada. Philip’s career drive didn’t end there, as he later became President of Nova Scotia Agricultural College (now Dalhousie University’s Agricultural Campus) and then as Director of Dubai Men’s College in the United Arab Emirates. He concluded his career as a Dean of Graduate Studies and professor at Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON until his retirement.
Beyond his extensive career track record, he was an avid athlete with notable accomplishments from earning his black belt in judo to completing multiple marathons. After living in six countries and visiting dozens more, Philip retired in Victoria, BC where he enjoyed reading hundreds of novels and bowling, and continued spending time with his small but loving family. Philip passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife and son, and will be forever remembered as a sharp, intelligent yet loving and caring man. He is dearly missed by his wife, Keiko; sons, Adam and Brian; brother, Brian (Norma); sister, Marianne (Mike); mother, Esther, and cousins, nephews and nieces.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Mike Faulds
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Gregory Cameron My deepest sympathies to the family. Dr. Hick’s was a true scholar and I have fond memories of him during the time he led the NSAC.
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Maureen Dixon I was so saddened to hear of Phillip’s passing. We had many conversations at the Langford YMCA gym classes. We often shared about the latest IMAX movies and presentations. He was inspired about life and was certainly enjoying his retirement. My sincerest condolences to his loving family at this very difficult time.
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Monique Proudfoot I am so sorry to learn of Philip’s passing. We enjoyed many classes and conversations at the Langford YMCA. My deepest sympathies to your entire family at this very difficult time.
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Robert Gordon and Sarina Randall Dear Keiko and Family
Our deepest sympathies on Philip’s passing. Our thoughts are with all of you during this difficult time.
Rob and Sari
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Mike Soares Dear keiko & family:
I have wonderful memories of spending many hours on the mats with Phil at The Halifax YMCA. Whenever we met recently, the years would melt away. Although we were distant, Phil remained a close friend. My condolences!
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Susan Malcolm (Richards) Susan Malcolm (Richards)
My heartfelt condolences
To your family on the passing
Of Philip.
With much sympathy.
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Captain (Ret'd) Stan Verran Dear Keiko and Brian,
I reflect on the kind personal support that Philip showed to me in Tokyo and his efforts to stay in touch with Fran and me for almost two decades. A great friend, a helpful friend and a loyal friend. We will think of him often and remember his brilliance and his kindness to not only us but our friends and our son Nate. HIs friendship was a blessing to my family and we want to stay close to him through Keiko and Brian.
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Ron Ward I’m so sorry to hear about Phil, though I’m glad he is not suffering now. I’ve often thought of him. Though we’re cousins, we’ve been out of touch for years. He’s the one who got me interested in the sport I love, Judo, back in college. I will always miss him.
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Richard Ward Dear Aunt Esther, Brian, and Mary Anne, So very sorry to hear about Philip! It seems almost like yesterday, that our family visited yours in Ontario. Life is too short! Love, Richard
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Tom Traves Dear Keiko
It has been many years since we’ve been in touch, but I want you to know how sorry I was to learn of Philip’s passing. We spent many years working together as fellow university presidents, as you know, and I recall very clearly the warmth and kindness both of you shared with me and Karen at various meeting sites. You have our deepest condolences in this very sad time.
Fond regards,
Tom Traves
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William Barker I remember Philip as a very congenial President at NSAC when I had the same job at King’s in Halifax. I kept encouraging him to drive his motorcycle onto the stage at convocation. Better him than me! He was always talking about his reading which was prolific and I missed him when he left for Dubai. Sad to hear of his death. A positive force. My condolences to the family and friends.
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Beth Phillips Dear Keiko and Family,
So incredibly sorry for the loss of an amazing pillar in our community at Dalhousie University. Sending thoughts and prayers to you all during this difficult time.
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Carolyn, Kelly & Ryan Terry Dear Keiko & Brian,
We are so very sorry to hear of Philip’s passing and your profound loss. May it lighten your hearts to know that we are still using Philip’s snowblower that he sold us when he left Bible Hill fifteen years ago for Dubai (laughingly saying that he likely wouldn’t need it there). A life well lived but ended too early. Hold each other closely and cherish the memories., Carolyn, Kelly & Ryan Terry
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David House Hi Keiko and Brian.
We are so very sad to hear this news. Such great memories of dinners at your house and all the great conversations and laughs. Philip was truly one of a kind and we will all miss him. Please accept our heartfelt condolences from all of our family. We are going thinking of you and Brian at this difficult time. Domo Arigato Philip for your friendship and good times. Take care Keiko and Brian. Sincerely David
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Robert Dykes He was an intelligent and articulate scientist, innovator and academician who loved life, adventure and his family. He made contributions in science and academia. Each endeavour improved the life of those around him. I will miss him. I offer my condolences to his family who must go on without his warm smile.
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Bruce Gray Dear Keiko, Brian and Adam (whom I never met but had heard Philip speak of), I am sorry. It seems as if you and Philip were here in Truro only yesterday. Time passes so quickly. I wish you peace knowing that your husband and father lived a fruitful and interesting life. You are in my thoughts. Bruce
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Alan, Linda, Cara, Jonathan and Trevor Fredeen To Keiko, Brian and Adam
Our thoughts are with you today as we celebrate Brian’s life, his friendship, and his contributions at the NSAC where his leadership helped propel development of an institution in which he so strongly believed.
Wishing you all the best from your Truro friends.
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Garth and Trinkie Coffin Dear Keiko and Brian
So very sorry to read of Phillips passing. Please know we are thinking of you and remembering good visits together.
Take care of each other and please be in touch if you feel you would like to.
Love and sympathy, Trinkie and Garth Coffin
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Leslie MacLaren Thinking of you, Keiko and Brian, and sending condolences you and others close to Philip. In that funny world of coincidences, I was just chatting two days ago with an old NSAC friend who also knew Philip wondering how you guys were doing and remembering some of the fun when you lived here in Truro…such as the time Ron and I came with Gefu and Kris to your place for a wonderful dinner, and Philip was so enthusiastically but erroneously convinced he could find a scotch I would like! As he was with everything he did, he was optimistic and energetic despite the long odds. Wishing you lots of fond memories to help you through this difficult time. Sincerely, Leslie and Ron
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Theresa Blois Dear Keiko, I am so sorry to hear of Philip’s passing. I’ll always remember the enthusiasm and energy he brought to NSAC. Philip always spoke with so much love and pride about you and Brian. My sincere condolences.
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Vasantha & Priyanka Rupasinghe Dear Keiko and Brian: Please accept our condolences. We are deeply saddened to hear of this unexpected loss. My memories remain of his professionalism with many academic activities at NSAC, including a knowledge exchange mission in Japan.
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Tim Delaney Dear Keiko and Brian,
I am shocked and saddened to here the news about Philip. During his tenure at NSAC, he was always kind to me and treated me well. I’m sorry for your loss and hope you will accept my sincere condolences.
Tim Delaney
Fort Ellis, NS
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Rafi Siddiquo Mrs. Hicks
Very sorry to hear the demise of Dr. Hicks. I had the pleasure of working with him at Dubai College. A gentle soul and a nice human being. May God give you and your son the courage to bear his loss. Always in prayers.
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Philip Wijers Dear Keiko and Brian,
Yumi and I are truly saddened by the news of Philip’s passing and offer you our heartfelt condolences.
We wish you strenght to deal with this great loss.
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Issam Barakat So sad to hear about Philip’s passing away. I enjoined working with him closely as he was my Director at Dubai Men’s College. He loved sport and created a Judo club at the college. He was a big supporter to physical education and students extracurricular activities. I am sure he will be missed by whoever new him. May his soul Rest In Peace.
Issam Barakat
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Jun-Ichiro and Seiko Oka Dear Keiko and Brian,
Our condolences on the loss of Philip. We have very fond memories of our 35 years of friendship with all of you. He will be long remembered for his contribution to neuroscience and education. If there is anything we can do for you, please let us know.With deepest sympathy,
Jun and Seiko Oka
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Valerie Secord Dear Keiko san and Brian,
My husband Dave and I are deeply saddened with the news of Phillip’s passing. I am happy to read about his life, and the interesting life that he did have.
His gentle ways and kindness will be remembered, and I am so glad that he was with his dear family and at home as he passed to be with His Creator.
You are in our prayers.
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Rui Wang I was planning to contact Philip this weekend to share some news and say hi. This sad news brings sadness and shock, but even more it brings back all those great memories about Philip, about the things we did together and the “old time” at Lakehead U. Philip – you will be remembered forever by this soul and many others. Keiko – You have my deepest condolences and please be strong and we are with you. Brain – You have had the best and most brilliant father and his life continues in yours. Whenever you need help, please do not hesitate to call or email me.
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Charisse Clark Keiko and Brian, my heart is broken for you as you mourn. You were a huge part of our lives in Thunder Bay. David and I have so many wonderful memories of spending Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter Dinners – not to mention birthdays with the three of you.
Philip was an amazing boss and I am thankful that his career led him to Lakehead University. You all became like family during these years (Dove too!). Philip always kept us delighted with his stories and sense of humour. His love for you and his sons was apparent and his physical presence will leave a huge hole, but his wonderful spirit will live on in our memories on Maple Avenue.
Rest In Peace Philip.
Until we meet again, Charisse and David House
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Flora Riyahi Dear Keiko ,
Wr are very sadden to hear about Philip’s passing .our deepest sympathy to you Brian and Adam.Hugs.
Hossain and Flora
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Gefu Wang-Pruski Dear Keiko and Brian, We cannot express how sad we are to this sudden loss. Our deepest condolences to you and your family. Much love, Gefu and Kris
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Anne Ricard Dear Keiko and Brian, please accept my condolences for your loss. This was so hard to hear. What a great man. My thoughts are with you. Take care.
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Brian Peddlesden Dear Keiko and Family –
Our sincere condolences to you on Philip’s passing. Brian and I enjoyed bowling with him and are very sorry to hear that he has passed on. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Take care of yourselves.
Pat & Brian Peddlesden
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Nancy Richards My sincere condolences to your while family. Praying that God will comfort you during this painful time.
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David Yee Dear Keiko and Brian – so sorry to hear about Philip’s passing (I truly enjoyed engaging with such a bright and kind man). Sending my condolences and support at this difficult time.
Dear Keiko and Brian, I was shocked and saddened to hear the news of Philip’s passing. Dinah and I met Philip on the RMS on the trip to Tristan in 2006. He also stayed overnight with us when he was at a conference in Edinburgh. On a free day we took him on a tour of the highlands of Scotland, taking in a few distilleries on the way. He was great fun to be with, and each evening four of us were on the RMS we would share some fine whiskies we’d brought with us. He was so outgoing and so full of life. It was a pleasure to have known him. We offer you our condolences at this sad time.