Submitted by Jennifer Swanston

Richard Swanston, of Tsawwassen, passed away unexpectedly on April 3. He was born in Vancouver in 1955 to parents Doug and Ella Swanston. A loving brother, uncle and friend, Rick will be dearly missed. He kept connected to his elementary school and high school friends with strong bonds that in some cases crossed date lines and equators.

Rick was destined for life on the sea – in a letter home written from Sea Cadets camp he tells stories of fights and tricks played on board including stealing the ship’s bell! Rick had a long and full career with BC Ferries during which time he enjoyed traveling, hiking, and was a passionate birder and conservationist.

Rick was a long time member of Delta Naturalists Society and Nature Vancouver.

Rick volunteered to document and protect the birds in and around the Reifel Bird Sanctuary, Boundary Bay, Point Roberts, the Tsawwassen foreshore, and the Fraser River Estuary. He would locate and photograph birds, then report his sightings of tagged birds to the appropriate agencies. He also observed changes in the populations and the behaviour of key bird species in these critical areas. For his efforts, Nature Vancouver awarded him the Davidson award for Conservation in 2015. (See the citation on page 9 of the Vancouver Naturalist- Summer 2015) 

When Rick noticed an activity he deemed hazardous to habitat he wouldn’t hesitate to write to the appropriate authority to bring it to their attention. He was uncompromising when it came to the protection of wild things at the mercy of our modern world, and his zeal will be missed.

There is no memorial planned in accordance with Rick’s wishes; instead, think of him and smile when you hear birds singing. Here are comments from three of his birding friends:

“What makes Richard stand out in the field of conservation is not only the fact-based nature of the issues he brought to the attention of our elected officials and their staff but also the fearless way he set about it.”

“Many times Rick would have a coffee, muffin or newspaper to read at Beach Grove Cafe after his spotting scope sessions along the 12th Ave dyke at Boundary Bay Regional Park! He particularly enjoyed finding birds with bands and once told me about a Brant goose that returned to Beach Grove Bay for 7 years! He was always willing to share his love of birds.”

“I used to run into Rick so often on the dyke and he loved sharing his interesting sightings. He always had some nature story to share.”

Note: Jennifer Swanston is Richard’s sister-in-law.