Dr. Alan Whittick, Ph.D.

January 28, 1943 to January 20, 2022

Obituary

Passed peacefully away at his home in St. John’s. He leaves his family with many special memories, his wife Judith, son Christopher, daughter Rachel, and her partner David Somers, Diana and Jay Van Rensburg of South Africa, Graham and Evelyn Teasdale of Scotland, plus nieces and nephews throughout the UK.

Alan always had a love for the ocean. After finishing their degrees at Durham University in Northern England, Alan and Judith set off for Newfoundland, so Alan could undertake his doctorate in marine biology. They arrived in this province more than fifty years ago, the beginning of their great adventure together.  Alan became professor of biology at Memorial University, teaching and mentoring students, undertaking research around the shores of the island of Newfoundland and on the coast of Labrador.   Many a summer was spent with the family in Bonne Bay where Alan taught marine field courses. He also had the opportunity to undertake many studies off the coast of Zanzibar, in Tanzania, in partnership with his African colleagues.

Retirement brought the opportunity for Alan and Judith to enjoy travelling to different parts of the world, throughout Africa, Iceland and Australia (to name only a few!). He enjoyed photographing native plants, birds and animals on their trips.  Special memories of many holidays spent with Diana and Jay in the South African bush on safari spotting lots of wild animals.

Alan loved to cook for family and friends, his signature dishes were appreciated by many, served with good wine and his captivating stories. He will be missed by many.

Thank you to the medical teams who helped Alan through his treatments and on his final journey.   He met so many interesting people and very much enjoyed the time you spent with him.  Your kindness and compassion are very much appreciated.  And to the friends who have supported Alan and Judith over the last couple of years, a big thank you to you all.

Following Alan’ s wishes, private cremation has taken place, and no service will be held.  Donations in his memory can be made to Memorial University Scholarship Fund or the charity of your choice.  A tree will be planted by the family in Alan’s memory.

Schedule