Byron passed peacefully at age 81. He leaves behind his wife Viola of 55 years, daughters Laurel and Heather (Ross), son Cameron (Julie), step-grandchildren Taylor (Shawna) and Trina (Charles), brother David (Louise), and sister Carollyn (Ed).

Byron was born in Winnipeg and underwent his elementary education there. Afterwards, his family moved to Fort William, Ontario. On a trip to Victoria in the winter, they discovered roses blooming, green grass, and golfers on the golf course. The family drove back to Ontario, sold their belongings, and moved to Victoria.

Byron graduated from the Faculty of Medicine at UBC in 1967. After a one year internship at the Royal Jubilee Hospital, he began his practice. He practiced for 46 years, retiring in 2014.

Byron was a kind, gentle man and a good listener. He was a committed family man — a supervisor for piano practices and homework. He loved his garden, growing tomatoes, and even mowing the lawn, but his favourite things were peach trees. In every house the family moved to, Byron planted a peach tree and took great care of the budding fruit.

Byron was involved in many church activities throughout his life, including Boys Brigade leader, Sunday School teacher, choir, Board member, and food prepper for the seniors' luncheons. He also played the organ for the early church service in the 70s and 80s.

Byron loved Christmas: the lights, decorations, food, and carols. His favorite carol was "O Holy Night." Two of his traditions were to ensure there was a steady supply of homemade fudge and to make cinnamon buns on Christmas Eve.

Thank you to the doctors and nurses at Victoria General Hospital Emergency, ward North 6D, and the ICU who cared for him so well during his last days.