October 1936 - March 2021 ~
Born into a family long involved in the Great Western Railway, Delmere grew up in the Devonshire town of Newton Abbot, England with his sister and three brothers. The early death of his eldest brother and parents engendered in him a strong sense of self-reliance, independence and urgency.
As a young man religious conviction made him a conscientious objector and he performed his community service as an orderly and nurse for years beyond his mandatory duty.
Delmere married his lifelong love Ann in 1960, with whom he shared a devoted 60 year relationship and together raised Joanna, Philip and Abigail.
Seeking greener pastures, he immigrated with his young family to Alberta in 1966, where he gained a reputation as an inspiring and dynamic educator, popular with students and parents alike.
A four year return to the UK in 1973 confirmed Delmere's love for his Canadian home and he returned with his family to settle permanently and teach in the Cowichan valley in 1977.
After his retirement in 1995, he continued to be deeply involved in his community, participating in local choirs, hiking and kayaking groups and fund raising organizations.
If one word could describe Delmere it would be, "enthusiast". He had a wide ranging curiosity in science, gardening, environmentalism, culture, history and politics. Among his many friends, he was known for his personability, sanguine optimism, warmth and generosity, and as ever loving, encouraging and supportive of his children and grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life for Ann and Delmere will be on their wedding anniversary, August 1st. Details to follow.