It is with sadness and admiration that the First Nations Technology Council acknowledges the passing of an inspirational friend and generous spirit. Gareth Shearman was recently bestowed the John Webb Community Champion Award from the Pacific Community Networks Association and the First Nations Technology Council for his leadership and untiring dedication to bringing technology benefits to BC communities.
Gareth passed away on Monday October 14, 2013 at the Victoria Hospice surrounded with love. We know Gareth for his generous heart, his jovial, caring nature and for his knowledge and insight into how technology and innovation could really help people. Gareth’s vision was more for the benefits that technology could bring to individuals than the profits that could be made from it. We will miss him greatly and remember him fondly, while we continue the work we shared. You have earned a restful and peaceful place of honour, old friend and you can trust your friends and family to carry your torch.
Some of Gareth’s many accomplishments included; a nomination for United Way of Greater Victoria 2012 Award for Collaboration and Partnership; Advisor to the i-Canada council of Governors; Founder and President of Telecommunities Canada; Founder and President of the Victoria Free-Net Association; President of BC Community Networks Association; B.Ed. UBC; MSc (Ed) SFU. Gareth was an active member of the Canadian Internet Registration Authority as well as the Victoria Rhododendron Society.