NEVILLE, John Eric

John Eric Neville, age 81, passed away peacefully on Salt Spring Island, BC on April 20, 2025. A dedicated and passionate naturalist, husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many, he generously shared his love and deep knowledge of the natural world with warmth and humour. He travelled across Canada, the UK, and New Zealand recording thousands of bird songs, ~producing a body of work that includes 17 albums.

Born in 1944 in Walsall, England, John’s fascination with nature was sparked in childhood. He roamed local fishing holes, hunted with his grandfather and on warm mornings watched robins flit through open kitchen windows to peck at the butter. At college in London, he often swapped reading for rock’n’roll, witnessing legends like The Beatles, Beach Boys and many more. In the ‘70s John moved to Canada and worked at Neville Physiotherapy Clinic in Nelson, BC, raising his family beside Kootenay Lake. He served his community through Rotary Club and was a City Councillor for 23 years, crafting legislation to conserve the town he loved.

In 1998 John moved to Salt Spring Island, lured by its natural beauty and wealth of “critters”. John and Heather’s adventures recording the birds inspired his writing: he authoured two books and numerous articles. He was president of BC Nature for several years. John loved a good game of Bridge, an early morning walk, or a swim in the lake. He was a loving, playful, and warm grandfather to his grandkids with legendary hugs, awful jokes, and a wily chuckle that could warm a room.

He will be lovingly remembered by his partner Heather Neville , daughters Deborah Neville (John Adams) and Fiona Leblanc (Jamie Leblanc); grandchildren Sophia, Aiden, Rosie, and Fergus; and faithful dog Arlo. Donations accepted online:

www.naturesaltspring.org\donate