In Memoriam Bryan G. Hawley
May 23, 1945 – October 29, 2020
With great sadness we learn of the passing, at age 75 and after a very long illness, of Bryan Hawley, co-founder of the Greenspace Alliance. He was no stranger to the Ottawa Hospital’s General Campus, but his last stay was a long and painful one. Despite the pandemic restrictions, his family was able to be with him throughout his final days.
The Greenspace Alliance was an important part of Bryan’s life. He was among four people, representing the Fairlea Community Association, who met in September 1997 and launched what became the Alliance. He served on the Board for several years and worked on campaigns to preserve natural spaces. Bryan was deeply committed to working with his neighbours in Fairlea Park Housing Co-op to ensure access to the Turtlehead Trails, located on the Hydro property just south of Walkley Road. With his friend, Peter Stockdale, he strategically argued for a water tower to be placed there in 1999. Turtlehead Trails sustained Bryan’s connection to trees, shrubs, birds and bugs. His jaunts through the area were an immense healing experience. In his final days, reliving memories of dog-walking, trail-building and general exploration of that land brought him true peace.
Our heartfelt condolences and deep thanks for Bryan’s many contributions go to his family, his wife Bette, children Azura, Justin and Josh and grandson Jasper.
The Board