Page created by: Blair Vance

My Dad,

Born December 15,1942
In Leith, Scotland
Passed March 7, 2024

As a child growing up and getting the opportunity to spend time with my dad, I knew how passionate he was about his career, how loyal he was to his family, and saw his ability to bring people together.

He had many chapters to his book but I knew him during the time my mother and him owned an accomplished travel agency. They specialized in cruising with the company NCL. Before that dad worked aboard many cruises as cruise director. They keep everyone informed, entertained and I would say the face of that ship. He loved people and that feeling was reciprocated!

We traveled the world together and with groups of sometimes hundreds of clients. It was an amazing journey and one I will never forget.

While he wasn't on the sea, you could find him on dry farm land in the heart of the Ottawa Valley. Raising cows and planting crops. He was also a licenced plumber and known for helping a neighbour friend or relative with their needs.

He was diagnosed with Parkinson's in early 2000's. At the time I knew very little about the disease or anyone else with it. As the years rolled on it became apparent that quality of life was of upmost importance to him and to us. It was around 2015 that we took a trip to Kentucky and met with others who shared his struggles and courage to find other advances in their journey. We were put in contact with the University of Kentucky (Neurological department) and introduced to a relatively new procedure called deep brain stimulation! This was fairly new procedure the side of North America but Dad was positive and hopeful. In the spring of 2016 he underwent the procedure under the steady hands of Dr. Vanhorn.

We were amazed and beyond grateful for the extra time and quality of life Dad lived for the years that followed. His steady hand held mine down the aisle and welcomed his two grandchildren Paddy and Nora. That steadiness never failed as did his character, humour and passion for the people and things he loved most!

This is a tribute to my dad who endured it all and came out with smile, humour and positivity to last a lifetime! We love and miss you so much!