Graham Alexander Prior

On the 10th of September, 2024, Graham moved on to the next world. Graham leaves behind his loving wife Janice, son Trevor (Debra), daughter Natalie (Russell), grandson Dorian, brother Derek (Claire), and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends.

Graham was born in the village of Datchet, England, and grew up in the Upton Court neighbour-hood of Slough. He spent his early years roaming freely over the nearby hills (‘the bumps’) and the grounds of Windsor Castle. He spoke fondly of his childhood adventures on his bicycle with his brother, Derek, and his friends, and of pedalling much too fast. Graham had many happy memories from his early teens, and often talked about travelling around with a family friend’s removals company, which took him all across England, as far west as Devon and north to York-shire. As soon as he could, he bought a motorcycle and treasured the freedom it gave him, particularly his weekend trips to St Ives in Cornwall for a beer and a pasty. Graham spoke with a smile about his ‘travels’ with his friends, memorably to London’s Eel Pie Island to see rock music (he kept the passport) and even hitch-hiking to Paris with no plan. Graham had a natural curiosity for all things mechanical. After completing school, he began an apprenticeship to become an auto-motive mechanic.

In his early twenties, Graham embarked on what he intended to be a world tour, starting with Canada. He never left. Graham travelled by ship across the Atlantic, sailing up the Saint Lawrence, landing in Montreal. He was swiftly ushered onto a train to Toronto, where he lived for three years, working as a mechanic for the Toronto Transit Commission. Someone told him of a beautiful place called British Columbia, and so one night he hopped in his car and left Toronto. Some friends had said that if he was ever on Vancouver Island that he should visit, so when he saw the signs for the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal, he decided to go. He always said that as he drove down the Pat Bay Highway for the first time, and saw the Olympic Mountains with Victoria below, he decided to never leave. Moving to Victoria was a good choice; it is where Graham met Janice. They shared two children and two beloved dogs, and decades of happiness together.

Graham worked as a mechanic at several shops in Victoria before opening Crystal Auto and Machine Shop on Rock Bay Avenue in the mid-1970s. He became known for his expertise in British sports cars, and had many loyal customers. Graham also trained several apprentices in the trade, and was proud of them. Crystal Auto had an open-door policy which brought a steady stream of friends through each day, and Graham always had time to stop for a cup of tea and a chat. He met many interesting people through his work, and he became part of a special crowd of local craftsman, business owners, and artists who were regulars at Swans Pub. He also participated in rally racing with the MG Club of Victoria for many years.

Graham also had an insatiable curiosity for the history and nature of the world around him. He loved walking and hiking, and he always noticed the small things, like the dew on a spider’s web or the feathers on a bird’s chest, and took the time to enjoy them. In his retirement, he spent many hours at his allotment in Saanich growing vegetables and flowers. He also had a great appreciation for fine craftsmanship, and was a fine craftsman himself, building a custom teardrop trailer in his later years.

Above all else, Graham was a wonderful husband, dad, grandad, and friend. He looked out for, and looked after, everyone. He stood up for what was right, and always, always had a witty quip for any situation. He leaves an unfillable hole in our hearts and lives.

To remember and honour Graham, take in the view at Cattle Point or Mount Tolmie, go for a long walk, or take your friend to the pub for a pint. A Celebration of Graham’s Life will be held with family and friends at a later date.

On behalf of Graham, we would like to thank all of the lovely people who work at BC Cancer and the Royal Jubilee Hospital, especially on the eight floor, Graham’s GP, Saanich Community Nursing, and Mobile Life Labs for all of their support.