Duncan Mearns Macpherson

With sadness, we announce the passing of our father, Duncan Macpherson, just two months shy of his 96th birthday. Gracious, kind, and thoughtful, Dad was a wonderful conversationalist, a stoic Scot, and a gentleman right up until the end.

A Chartered Accountant, Dad began his career by articling at Price Waterhouse. Later, he joined the newly established BCIT when it was just a single building, and stayed for 20 years, ending as Vice President of Administration and Finance. He was proud of his role in helping BCIT to grow into a prominent and important educational facility, and later, of his role in establishing BCIT’s downtown campus. He retired in 1987 and then spent many years travelling to Hawaii, to Alaska, and through Europe with his adored late wife, Miriam. One of many highlights was their trip to Elgin, Scotland, to visit the church where his grandfather was a minister.

Dad was born in Saskatoon but grew up in North Vancouver. He often reminisced about his teen and early adult years; walking from central Lonsdale to Grouse Mountain to go skiing and sometimes going to a dance that same evening. Or, riding his bike to Gleneagles Golf Club with his clubs on his bike.

As a retiree he was an active volunteer with the Kiwanis Club. He was an avid walker and golfer, a cribbage player, Bridge player, and Sinfonia attendee. He enjoyed many close friendships with members of Highland’s United Church, his long-time neighbours, and beyond. But he was always happiest on the occasions when he was surrounded by his family.

Dad was predeceased by his loving wife, Miriam (nee Pritchard) Macpherson. He is survived by his daughters; Leila Macpherson, Judi (Paul) Cooper, and Dori (Pete) Macpherson, and his two granddaughters, Amelia (Robin) and Shannon Cooper. Dad was also predeceased by his close friend in his latter years, Maureen McColl.

Special thanks to the wonderful care team at Lynn Valley Care Centre where Dad spent his final year, in a suite overlooking Mt. Seymour and the streets where he rode his bike as a young man.

A Memorial Service will be held to celebrate Dad’s life on Sunday, August 30th at 2:00 pm at Highland’s United Church in the Edgemont Village, North Vancouver.