Remembering Dr. Geoffrey Taylor

February 10, 1952 - July 17, 2020

In Memoriam: Dr. Geoffrey Taylor, Professor, Division of Infectious Diseases

A member of the Department of Medicine since 1985, he completed his undergraduate education at the University of Regina, Medical Degree at the University of Saskatchewan, Internal Medicine in New Zealand (where he had the good fortune of meeting his wife Prudence), and Infectious Diseases training at the University of Alberta.   He trained in epidemiology and public health at McGill and Tufts Universities. After involvement in outreach opportunities in Fiji early in his career, he maintained a Global Health focus through a longstanding relationship with the IDSA AIDS Training Program, and Makerere University in Uganda.  

Always quietly effective, Dr. Taylor co-founded the Northern Alberta HIV Program, and established the first hospital Infection Control Unit in Alberta. He was a founding member and integral part of the Canadian Nosocomial Infection Surveillance Program, a force for development of national surveillance of hospital acquired infections and antimicrobial resistance in Canada. He served in numerous leadership roles including Director, Division of Infectious Diseases from 2008-2013, and Senior Medical Director for the AHS Provincial Infection Prevention and Control.
 
Described by a colleague as a “very accomplished, ‘real deal’ person who is modest, and reserved”, he provided his patients with kind, compassionate care, and was a steady advocate for vulnerable and stigmatized populations beginning in the early days of HIV/AIDS. He was deeply interested in and supportive of everyone he worked with, and was a valued mentor to many over the years.  He believed in the potential for excellence and good in anyone- often supporting and challenging young professionals (including his children) through impromptu quizzes and vigorous debate to fine tune critical thinking skills. 

A firm believer in a well-rounded life, Geoff enjoyed Alberta’s Rocky Mountains and sharing his passion and vast knowledge of the history of western Canada, mountaineering, and explorers. His quiet manner also belied an adventurous streak - a devoted skier and hiker, he was always on the lookout for his next mountain adventure in Canada or New Zealand. 

Reflecting on his life in his final days, Geoff noted “I am fortunate to have had so much, when so many have had so little. I will never ask for more”.

Geoff passed away peacefully after a brief illness at home, surrounded by his family, on July 17, 2020. 

His wife, Prudence; children, Duncan and Alex (Pär); grandson, Oskar and extended family wish to extend their thanks to the numerous healthcare providers who provided Geoff with outstanding and compassionate care over his last few months.

Dr. Geoffrey David Taylor Memorial Fund