Thorpe, Ronald William
(Ron)
Born May 14, 1924, Ron passed away peacefully on April 17, 2016, with loving family by his side. He was predeceased by his brother Geoff in 2003, and his wife Marg in 2008.
Ron was born and raised in Victoria, graduating from Vic High in 1942. He then joined the R.C.A.F. for two years of pilot training, obtaining the rank of Pilot Officer. Throughout his lifetime he maintained a love of airplanes, and was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion.
Following World War II, Ron articled to become a land surveyor, receiving his Commission in 1949 (BCLS #283). He became a field surveyor with the Legal Surveys Branch of the provincial government, and spent his entire career in the civil service. Annual survey trips took him to diverse and remote locations in British Columbia, and inspired his love of the outdoors. Ron was proud to serve as Surveyor General of B.C. from 1978 until his retirement in 1982. In 2005 he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Corporation of B.C. Land Surveyors.
Ron married Margaret Gold of Nanaimo in 1950, and they enjoyed 58 happy years together, raising a family in Victoria. Sailing, fishing, gardening, and camping were all favourite pastimes. Ron was also an enthusiastic golfer and was a long-time member of the Uplands Golf Club, serving a term as men’s captain.
A talented and active man, Ron was invariably modest. Though quiet, he had a wonderful sense of humour, and enjoyed many good times with a wide circle of friends and family.
Ron leaves behind his son Ian (Ruth) of Nanaimo, daughter Nancy Taylor of Victoria, grandchildren Lisa, Laura, Nik, and Patty (Jeremy), along with numerous friends and relatives. The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at the Lodge at Broadmead for the compassionate care they provided.
Ron will be remembered as a true gentleman, for his quiet strength, intelligence, unforgettable kindness, honour and dignity, and above all for his loving devotion to family. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
A celebration of Ron’s life will be held May 14, 2016, from 2-4pm at the Uplands Golf Club, 3300 Cadboro Bay Road, Victoria. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.