In Celebration of

Alan Duncan

June 17, 1951 -  October 2, 2021

Alan passed away unexpectedly in Toronto on Saturday, October 2, 2021 at the age of 70. He is survived by sister Ann Robb (Bruce), brothers Ian and Peter, several cousins, nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and nephews, and many very, very dear friends.

Born and raised in Toronto, Alan travelled the world extensively after graduating from the University of Guelph (BLA ’73), and eventually made Vancouver his home base.

Alan had a very distinguished career as a landscape architect, but to family and friends he was more than that – much more than that. Alan always marched to his own drum, whether he was stilt-walking in the movie “Bird on a Wire”, or trekking through the Hebrides in search of the Cameron ancestral home on the Isle of Mull (which he found). As our resident genealogist, Alan kept our family connected and up to date on all things Duncan and Cameron. To say he was the heart of the family is an understatement. Sometimes eccentric, mostly practical, always the life of the party, Alan was the epitome of a life well-lived. We miss him dearly, but take comfort in knowing that he left with no regrets.

As per Alan’s wishes, cremation has taken place and in the summer or early fall of 2022, a celebration of life will be held with the scattering of his ashes near his cabin. If desired, donations may be made to ‘The Alan Duncan Award for Bird Conservation’ (https://stanleyparkecology.ca/the-alan-duncan-bird-conservation-award), the ‘Stanley Park Ecology Society’ (https://stanleyparkecology.ca/support-us/donate), or any charity of your choice.

Guestbook 

(5 of 40)

Stephen Follansbee (Friend)

Entered October 14, 2021 from Palm Springs

Alan’s absence in the Palm Springs community is sadly noted. His insights and appreciation of the desert landscape enriched all our lives. Warmest of hugs to all.

Erik Lees (Friend)

Entered October 14, 2021 from Vancouver, BC

A wonderful tribute to Alan. Thank you. We miss him terribly.

Andrea Wickham (friend)

Entered October 14, 2021 from Vancouver

Alan made so many contributions to all things public space in Vancouver, and was so accomplished. He was deeply intelligent, with a sharp sense of humour and amazing style. Alan spoke to our class on my first day of grad school and I wanted to be like him, do the type of work he did - he was so inspiring. I was lucky to work with him many years later and we became dear friends. He was completely vibrant (he lit up my wedding party!) but also very pragmatic (embroidered pillow cases as a gift). Alan lived life well, and all of his friends will feel his loss deeply.

michelle larigakis (friend and colleague)

Entered October 14, 2021 from Vancouver

My deepest condolences to his family and his dear friends whom he considered his extended family. Alan was a very special person in my life. He was a mentor, colleague, neighbour for 5 years and friend. From my first days at the City in 1998 we bonded and I always knew he had my back in any circumstance, whether it was work or personal life. He was wise, darkly witty, affectionate and generous. I could think of a million more descriptors. I will miss him profoundly, as will everyone who knew him well.

Mark Vulliamy (Friend and former work colleague)

Entered October 14, 2021 from Vancouver

I worked with Alan for several years at Vancouver Park Board, and we remained in touch after my retirement and subsequently his. I valued his friendship and, like many others, am saddened he is no longer with us.

Photos 

(5 of 21)

Checking out North Vancouver Breweries Alan, with cousin June and me, 1999 From Alan's place in Kitsilano 2017 at Alan's in Vancouver Alan and Donna Cameron, 1995
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