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.
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37 Responses
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
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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