A well-known former resident of Burnaby has passed away at the age of 91.
Harold Craven "cared about everything from the country's debt to the environment," said his son Stephen.
Craven wrote a well-read bird watching column in the Burnaby NOW for years and was a regular contributor to letters to the editor. He also wrote poetry.
His son said he was active until very recently. His most recent bird-watching walk was on Wednesday, April 11 when he went to check on birds in his neighbourhood. He had moved to a retirement home a few years ago.
"I always enjoyed talking to Harold when he delivered his handwritten columns filled with almost lyrical descriptions of local birds.
He was a true gentleman with an infectious love for nature," said Pat Tracy, editor of the Burnaby NOW.
Born in Thunder Bay, Ont., Craven grew up on a farm where his passion for nature and the environment began. In 1939, he enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force. While serving overseas, he met Hilda. They started their new life together in Nanaimo, eventually moving to Vancouver.
They then settled to Burnaby Heights, where they raised their family and became active members of the community. He was predeceased by Hilda in 2003.
He is survived by his son Stephen, daughter Margaret (Gary Dumbrell), grandchildren Leanne (Christian), Allison (Frank), and Joseph, and greatgrandchildren Everett, Isla and Elizabeth.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 5 at 1 p.m. at Parish of Saint Timothy, 4550 Kitchener St., Burnaby.
