Alan Frederick Babb

Our family is sad to announce the passing of Alan on December 7, 2025, in North Vancouver. Alan will be deeply missed by his loving daughter Susan (Howard), his grandsons Cameron and Nicholas, his sister Nancy, as well as many other close family members and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Judith and Frederick, his wife of 60 years, Elaine, and his son, Jeffrey.

Born in Burnaby, British Columbia, Alan spent his early childhood on a small island off the west coast of Vancouver Island near Kyuquot, where his father operated a gas station serving fishing boats. During this period, Alan and his sister Nancy enjoyed considerable independence despite their young age (and without much concern for safety), which reflected the attitudes of the time. Nancy would even row herself to school in a small boat—without a life jacket.

Alan graduated from West Vancouver High School in 1953 and then attended the University of British Columbia, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. He met his wife, Elaine, during high school, but it was during their long carpool rides from West Vancouver to UBC that they truly got to know one another and began dating. They were married in 1958 and soon after moved to Minnesota, where Alan earned a master’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Minnesota. In 1971, Alan completed his PhD in civil engineering at the University of California, Davis, specializing in hydrology.

After the birth of their children, Jeffrey and Susan, Alan and Elaine moved to Pullman, Washington, where Alan was a civil engineering professor at Washington State University for 14 years and was also active in hydraulic modelling at the Albrook Hydraulics Laboratory. Alan was highly regarded by his students, who appreciated his depth of knowledge, patient teaching style, and genuine interest in their success. Many remembered him as a professor who challenged them intellectually while remaining approachable, supportive, and generous with his time.

In 1985, Alan left WSU and joined Northwest Hydraulic Consultants, a company based in North Vancouver, where he worked for nearly 30 years. As a senior physical hydraulic specialist, he contributed to resolving some of the most complex hydraulic modelling projects and took pride in mentoring younger civil engineers. Through his work with NHC, Alan travelled extensively, including to Nepal and Kugluktuk, Nunavut (formerly Coppermine).

Alan was dedicated to his family, prioritizing their needs and happiness and ensuring they felt supported and valued. Alan enjoyed travelling with his wife and made frequent trips to Europe, Australia, and New Zealand as well as cruises to Alaska and parts of Europe. He was an active person who enjoyed tennis, skiing, bicycling, and walks on the beach, and he encouraged his children to participate in sports and outdoor activities as well.

Alan will always be cherished, fondly remembered, and deeply missed. A special thank-you to the caregivers at the Lynn Valley Care Centre for their wonderful care.

Alan was a kind and generous person who supported many charities over the years. Donations in his memory to the Lions Gate Hospital Foundation would be appreciated.