Avis de décès de Donald Abbott

ABBOTT, Donald Neil Died peacefully on Thursday, July 28. He was born April 30, 1935. Don is survived by his wife Maria, children James, Ian and Sarah; daughterin-law Jo-Ann; granddaughters Railey, Brynn, Chloe and Augusta; nephews Craig and David; niece Lynn and their children. Don was raised in Vancouver where he attended King George High School and the University of British Columbia, followed by postgraduate work at the Institute of Archaeology, London University and Washington State University, Pullman. Don was loyal to all his friends and a faithfully committed husband and father. He was fond of his Scottish heritage, loved wearing his kilt at formal occasions, a member of Saltire Society Victoria and for many years of the Victoria Branch of the Scottish Country Dance Society. He enjoyed photography and scuba diving especially with the Underwater Archaeological Society in their earliest years. In 1960 Don joined the staff of the Royal BC Museum as the first professional archaeologist in BC. In his 35 year career, Don continuously and selflessly promoted the discipline of archaeology. He conducted excavations on sites on southern Vancouver Island that contributed significantly to an understanding of Coast Salish history. Under his direction the Museum became the provincial centre for the documentation of archaeological sites and the storage of artifacts and associated data, held in trust for First nations. He was a member of the Archaeological Sites Advisory Board, of the committee that created 'Ksan Cultural Centre in Hazelton, worked on the Exxon Valdes Recovery Programme. Don loved words and language. As writer and editor he enhanced the stature and scientific rigor of publications produced under Museum imprint. His contributions remain important references in the literature, notably "The World is as Sharp as a Knife " an anthology memorializing his friend, the late Wilson Duff. Don brought high moral principles to his job. During his time, he was the primary conscience of the Museum, establishing and defending humanistic, scientific and literary standards. A modest man, he felt no need to proclaim his achievements but many colleagues remain honoured to have learned from and with him and continue to remember his selfless commitment to the unique cultural history of British Columbia. Don was a man of great dignity, humour and intelligence; he will be dearly remembered. The family wishes to thank all the staff of Glengarry Hospital, where he quickly became particularly attached to Lisa, Pedro, Luke and Nellia. A celebration for remembrance will be held in early September. Announcement to follow. 125418