Ronald Charles Newton (1933 – 2010)

I remember Ron Newton above all for his helpfulness and his kindness. When I was interviewed at the University of British Columbia in 1971, I telephoned him to ask about life in Vancouver. He gave me, whom he did not know from Adam, much good information and advice, both then and after my arrival at UBC. Despite our two universities being an hour’s drive apart and our houses being separated by the Lion’s Gate Bridge, we kept in regular touch over the years. It was always a pleasure to visit with Ron and Ortrud in their home with its spectacular views overlooking downtown Vancouver. Adept as a painter and a cabinet maker, Ron was quiet, even reserved in manner, but appearances were deceiving. He was a man of integrity with strongly held views which he did not flinch from voicing in the department...