I was saddened to learn of Darwin’s passing much too early with so much more to share.
I worked with Darwin for more than 30 years at SAIT in several capacities. I always respected that Darwin always put the best interests of his students front and center. From staying late in his labs, meeting students in his office or passionately advocating for his program. Darwin was a deserving recipient of the faculty association FIRST Award given to staff who best display the organizations values of Fairness, Integrity, Respect, Safety and Transparency.
Darwin was a very principled man who was not afraid to share his thoughts and beliefs to anyone that would listen… and even to some who didn’t want to listen. Agree with him or not, I always respected how he had thoroughly thought about the big picture issues and was so articulate in presenting his views. His many letters to the editor sharing his political opinions were always enjoyable and entertaining to read because of his sharp-witted writing skills. A Google search of Darwin lists many of his posts, some as recent as a few months ago.
I always admired Darwin being an adventurous early adopter and trail blazer. Early on in his career he accepted challenging international assignments in Malaysia and Egypt and was always innovating in his classroom. If I recall correctly, he was an early advocate for the upstart Reform and Wildrose political parties.
I will miss your wit, your great sense of humor and that devilish smile when you knew you winning over others. I will also miss your updates at the monthly Electronics Retirement lunches that I was able to attend.
RIP Darwin!
Gord Nixon
