Neil Jaques Topham

Neil Jaques Topham

Thinker - Mentor - Tinkerer - Philomath - Friend

We will never know another person like Neil Topham. Remarkably clever, curious, kind, and dedicated, Neil left us on October 16th, 2021. His wife and children will miss him dearly, as will his students, family, and community at large.

Dedicating many years of his life to Oak and Orca Bioregional School, Neil was an extremely committed mentor, encouraging us all to be curious, ask questions, and develop a sense of inquiry about the world.  He shared his love of math and physics with many students over the years. Before the school, Neil was a founding member of the Greater Victoria Cycling Coalition and the Victoria Bicycle People, dedicated to cycling research and advocacy. In the 80s and 90s, you might have seen him up at the University of Victoria riding his home-made recumbent bicycle where he stood out in any crowd! He met Kara volunteering with the Vancouver Island Public Interest Research Group (VIPIRG), where they worked on a variety of projects for the greater good.

Throughout his life, Neil could often be found designing, building or repairing something, as he embodied his values of sustainability, simplicity, and hard work. He was known for his generosity in helping others with their projects, all the while inspiring those involved to learn new skills and develop their confidence. Neil was also known for his love of well made tools and objects which he collected and shared with a passion.

A man of many passions and talents, rich conversation, and gentleness, Neil stays in our hearts.

An outdoor celebration for Neil will be held on June 18th, 2022 at 7pm in Victoria. Please email celebrateNJT@gmail.com for more information and to share memories or photos with his family. To share another of Neil’s passions, in lieu of flowers, please consider donating blood.

We miss you Neil. We love you so much.