Byron Grant McGregor

He will be deeply missed.

Byron Grant McGregor, aged 72, was born on December 28, 1953 in Victoria, B.C. He led a varied and interesting early life. He had a variety of jobs, including working as a hydrogeologist in the interior, studying whales in Baja, Mexico, working with autistic children, assisting at a fishing camp in Hakai B.C., and later had a long career in I.T.

He enjoyed diving deep into new interests in his free time. He wrote software, rode motorcycles, cultivated an interest in gardening and mycology, and roasted coffee beans for use with his various coffee-making contraptions. A constant source of joy in his life was his love of music. He played guitar and piano, and kept a music collection that out-lasted multiple physical mediums. He had collections on vinyl, cassette tape, CD, and, in the end, digital media. He delighted in finding new music of any genre, especially if the band showed talent, passion, and creativity. Byron loved the outdoors and nature, and throughout his life would find time for hiking, back-country camping, mountain climbing, kayaking, and mountain biking. In his later years he dedicated much of his time to keeping fit and was a longstanding member at the Wild + United Athletics Gym in Courtenay.

He was a very independent and principled man who held deep convictions. He kept well-informed about environmental issues, and was passionate about conservation and the struggle against climate change. He also cared deeply for humanity as a whole, and genuinely wished for the best for everyone on earth. He had much to teach to everyone who were fortunate enough to have known him about life, compassion, and what it means to live in the modern world.

Byron is survived by his children Robyn (Nick), Cory (Amber), his grandchildren Abigail and Charlie, his brother Dan (Verity), and his much beloved ex-wife Anne.

He was preceded in death by his parents Roy and Hilda McGregor.

A small, private service will be held.