With his lifelong passion for farming and gardening, Colin felt most at home on his farm in Nanoose Bay, surrounded by plants and animals. He took great pride in being a good steward of his land and livestock and working in harmony with nature to protect the environment and nurture healthy ecosystems. For example, he felt a deep sense of pride and fulfilment whenever he found rare birds on his farm, and at one point put the building of a new barn on hold until a resident killdeer had finished nesting on the site.

Beyond the fences of his own farm, Colin was a respected and passionate advocate for agriculture in the region. Known for his straightforward and common-sense approach, he gave generously of his time and knowledge, always eager to lend a hand or offer advice to other farmers. He served as president of the Coombs Farmers’ Institute for 10 years and was active in many other farm organizations.

Colin always held a special place in his heart for children and youth. The idea that no child should go without was a consistent theme throughout his life. While operating Town & Country Construction, he offered free sand to anyone building a sandbox. While his children were growing up, he volunteered his time and expertise as a 4-H Leader and an adult advisor for the Canadian Junior Hereford Association. And during his time at the Coombs Farmers’ Institute, Colin made it his mission to build up their student scholarship program. He was also a long-time supporter of the Nanoose Community Services food bank and Christmas Elf Program.

While Colin would never have described himself as a philanthropist, he never hesitated to support causes he believed in. He often did so quietly, with no need or expectation for public recognition. It’s simply who he was.