Obituary: Gary Bortolotti, Professor of Biology

Professor Gary Bortolotti (Biology) passed away on Sunday, July 3, of complications from acute leukemia. A faculty member in the Biology Department since 1987, Gary made tremendous contributions to the Department and to his discipline of ornithology, and had many friends and admirers in the Department, the College of Arts & Science, the University, and around the world.

Gary Bortolotti was born on August 17, 1954 in Smiths Falls, Ontario. Following his passions, Gary lived a life of adventure. His passion for nature drew him to his career as a biologist, first as a PhD student doing research on Besnard Lake, a place that remained dear to him all his life. He joined the Biology Department at the U of S, first as a University Research Fellow, a prestigious national award, moving quickly through the ranks to full professor. He was appointed the Stuart and Mary Houston Professor of Ornithology and Rawson Professor of Biology and served the university community in various capacities, including as Assistant Head of the Biology Department for 8 years. He had a broad, extensive research program, working with colleagues around the world, especially in Spain. An inspiring teacher and dedicated scientist, Gary was a world-renowned avian biologist with wide-ranging impact on fields including behaviour, physiology, ecology, and evolutionary biology. An avid and talented photographer, Gary recorded his passion for nature for us all to share. He is survived by his children, Lauren and Eric; his wife of 23 years, Heather Trueman; sister, Linda (Michael Hutcheon), and predeceased by his parents, Roy Bortolotti and Elisa Bortolotti Bulfon.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be designated to the Gary Bortolotti Award in Biology at the University of Saskatchewan. Call 1-800-699-1907 to make a donation.