This week the University of Saskatchewan recognized Ian's passing through the lowering to half-mast of the flag over the Thorvaldson Building. Both photos were taken from upper floor windows of the Murray Library.
On its website, the University of Saskatchewan Governance Office keeps a permanent record of individuals for whom the flag is lowered in memory and respect. See: https://governance.usask.ca/about/flag-at-half-mast.php#Flagathalfmast
Here is the wording for Ian:
In Memoriam
February 15, 2024
The flag is lowered today in honour of Librarian Emeritus Ian Nelson. He passed away on February 1, 2024. Ian's years of academic service as a Librarian and member of faculty were: 1969-1998.
A link to the obituary follows.
During the Fall 2024 academic term, Ian's U of S legacy will be further honoured through a tribute at a meeting of University Council.
Every six weeks or so I look at myself in the mirror and say “Your hair wants cutting!” Fond memories of me as Alice and Ian as the Mad Hatter in ABCI’s production of Alice in Wonderland directed by Bob Hinitt. It was the most wonderful tea party I ever was at!
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Ian. When I met him I was just a child of 10 or 11 and he was a "theatre friend" of my mother's (Hetty Clews). As I grew up I came to understand what a special person he was: always a gentleman, who was educated, polite, and well-spoken, kind and generous to all. My mother loved him very much, and I admired him greatly. He gave so much to this community, and I know he will be missed by many. Vale, Ian.
Ian adjudicated one of our Festivals and was such a caring, knowledgeable person. He will be greatly missed by all his friends province wide.
Michelle & Peter Waldbillig
Melfort Amateur Dramatics
Ian Nelson: Surprise greeted me on seeing Ian’s obituary in the newspaper. How could someone young and energetic as Ian actually die! We were decades long colleagues in the U. of Sask. Library and we both had hearts for books. I admired Ian’s passion for language, for his curiosity and for his leadership. Good-by Ian! You helped make work at the University interesting and satisfying and many times actually enjoyable – thanks! Victor G. Wiebe
