Today@Dal

Dear Colleagues,

It is with a heavy heart that I share the sad news that Neil Gall, Executive Director of MEOPAR (Marine Environmental Observation Prediction and Response Network, hosted by Dalhousie), passed away on January 3, 2016. 

I’m sure that all MEOPAR investigators and MEOPeers (the students and postdocs in our Network) would like to join MEOPAR’s staff, our Board, and our Research Management and International Scientific Advisory Committees in extending our deepest condolences to Neil’s wife and family at this time.

Neil was first and foremost a devoted father to his two young daughters and husband to his wife, Julie. He is remembered by everyone who knew him as a man who loved intellect and ideas, as well as adventure, travel, and the outdoors.

He was a charismatic leader with a sharp mind, a quick wit, and a warm heart.  A Newfoundlander to the core, Neil’s enthusiasm, sense of humour and positive outlook energized our workplace and the MEOPAR community. He was wonderful to work with.

Neil had been heavily involved with oceans throughout his career.  A natural relationship builder with strong business acumen, he held several leading roles in government, research and academic environments before joining MEOPAR, including his role as the Executive Director of “Bridges”, an ocean technology marketing initiative administered through the Marine Institute of Memorial University. He also played a key role in the development and implementation of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s ocean technology development strategy, “Oceans of Opportunity,” during his term as the Manager of Ocean Technology Partnerships for the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador.  He deeply enjoyed bringing this passion to other sectors, including as an active supporter and advisor to the YMCA in St. John’s, Newfoundland, and as a popular lecturer at Memorial University’s School of Business Administration.

Neil joined MEOPAR in 2013, shortly after the Network was established.  His leadership and vision during this especially challenging building phase transformed MEOPAR from a concept into the vibrant, national network it is today.  He loved all aspects of the work, from helping to communicate the great ocean science being done in Canada, to establishing the network, to charting our strategic course as an organization.

MEOPAR remains in good hands with the capable, talented staff that Neil helped recruit and was so proud of.  Our Associate Scientific Director, Dr. Ron Pelot, has kindly agreed to step in as Acting Executive Director, for the time being, to ensure that the Network keeps the momentum that Neil helped so much to create.

Neil’s family is creating an educational scholarship in his memory. Donations to the fund can be accepted online at youcaring.com/NeilGall.  Funeral and visitation details are given below.

Neil was immensely devoted to his family and 100% committed to our Network. He was an exceptional colleague and no matter what was going on, he was always positive. We miss him greatly.

Yours sincerely,

Doug Wallace
MEOPAR Scientific Director

- Read Neil’s Obituary
- Donate to the Neil Gall Memorial Scholarship Fund