Alexander Craig Birston

It is with broken hearts, but deep gratitude for a life so well lived, that we announce the passing of Craig Birston on August 3, 2026, at the age of 68, after a courageous journey with cancer.

Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, on March 17, 1958, Craig lived each day with purpose, curiosity, optimism, and an unwavering faith that carried him through life’s greatest joys and its hardest moments. He believed people mattered, and he had an extraordinary gift for making them feel that they did.

If you met Craig, chances are you talked with him for a while. He genuinely loved people. Whether standing in line at a coffee shop, chatting with someone on a bike trail, teaching a classroom full of students, or catching up with lifelong friends, he made time for conversation. He listened with interest, shared generously, and had a way of making every person feel seen. He stayed connected with friends across every season of life, never forgetting the relationships that meant so much to him.

His greatest love was his family. Craig was the devoted husband of his beloved wife, Patty, whose partnership and love enriched his life beyond measure. He was a proud and loving father to Alexandra (“Ali”) Claire Roex and her husband, Calvin, and to Kristjan (“Reid”) Birston and his fiancée, Emma. Becoming a grandfather was one of the greatest blessings of his life. He adored his granddaughter, Kaia, whose smile brought him endless joy, and he looked forward with excitement and hope to the arrival of another grandchild.

Professionally, Craig found the perfect intersection of creativity and purpose. As an architect, he designed with imagination and integrity. As a teacher, he shared not only knowledge but a vision for a better future through sustainable, green energy design. He encouraged his students to think beyond buildings—to consider how thoughtful design could improve lives and care for the world around us.

Outside of work, Craig embraced life wholeheartedly. Cycling was more than a hobby—it was part of who he was. He proudly participated in Gran Fondo rides and the Ride to Conquer Cancer, and he continued riding almost daily until just one week before his passing. He loved the exhilaration of downhill skiing, treasured long conversations over coffee with friends, and found beauty in both the natural and built world.

Later in life, he rediscovered his love of sketching. His intricate drawings—often of beautiful buildings—became heartfelt cards that he lovingly created and shared with family and friends. They were small gifts of beauty, each one carrying a piece of the artist, architect, and thoughtful soul who created them.

Even during his illness, Craig remained remarkably hopeful. He faced each day with courage, grace, and gratitude, choosing to focus on what he still had rather than what had been taken away. His faith was the foundation beneath his optimism and the quiet strength that sustained him throughout his life.

Craig is lovingly remembered by his wife, Patty; his daughter, Ali, her husband Calvin, and their daughter Kaia; his son, Reid, and his fiancée Emma; his brother Paul Birston and his wife, Margaret; his sister Carla Tough and her husband, Brian; his brother Harold Birston and his wife, Carla; and his brother Drew Birston and his wife, Amanda. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family members, former students, colleagues, and dear friends who were all made better by knowing him.

Those who loved Craig will remember far more than his accomplishments. They will remember his laugh, his curiosity, his gentle spirit, his unwavering optimism, and the countless conversations that made them feel heard and valued. They will remember the miles he cycled, the buildings he imagined, the sketches he shared, and, above all, the love he gave so freely.

His life reminds us that our greatest legacy is not found in what we build, but in the lives we touch.

Craig’s journey on earth has ended, but the kindness, wisdom, faith, and love he shared will continue to live on in all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may optionally be made to the BC Cancer Foundation or the David Suzuki Foundation, two organizations close to his heart.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 2:00-3:00 PM at Mount Seymour United Church (1200 Parkgate Ave, North Vancouver), with light refreshments following the service. All who knew and loved him are welcome to attend