Lawyer, counsellor, wit, intellectual, poet, friend, advocate, mentor, cyclist, dog-dad, music-lover and all-round prince of a man, Patrick James Walker (BA, LLB, MA) died unexpectedly and too soon.

Patrick was a good man. His keen mind, deep, sensitive, insightful poet’s soul and genuine kindness fueled his passion for life, literature, travel, adventure and people, and sustained his connection to and involvement in the world around him.

Patrick built and enjoyed a challenging and rewarding career in law, both in the private sector and at the Federal Department of Justice. He was a creative, committed and trusted counsel to clients and colleagues alike, and a generous and respected mentor to junior counsel.

Patrick was a committed supporter of causes close to his heart. He taught law classes at UBC, sat on various Provincial Tribunals and was a Board Member at AIDS Vancouver and a founding member of the Canadian Bar Association’s LGBTQ+ Practice British Columbia Section. To support the work of the Callanish Cancer Retreat, he trained for and cycled the Fondo and had intended to do so again this year.

Patrick was a curious and committed lifelong learner and loved an academic challenge, so it was not surprising that he transitioned into a new profession after he left the Department of Justice. He threw himself into a rigorous course of study at UBC’s graduate school and achieved a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology. With this blend of academic training and rich life experience, he went on to make a meaningful impact at the Lawyer’s Assistance Program of BC.

Patrick faced many challenges in his life and worked daily to manage them. He was a person who believed in being of service. He endeavored to be there for others facing challenges and was present in the accepting, empathetic, understanding and insightful way he had about him.

Patrick was a vibrant participant in life—connected to his colleagues and a loving, loyal companion to his many dear friends. He will be missed by all whose lives he touched, but his impact will not be forgotten.

Donations to the Patrick Walker Memorial Fund will celebrate Patrick’s passion for lifelong learning. It is his friends’ and family’s wish to establish an award to honour Patrick’s life by supporting students at UBC, with preference given to students from communities that have been historically, persistently and systemically marginalized. UBC will finalize the terms of the fund in consultation with his loved ones.