Passed away at The Elliott long term care home on May 22nd, 2020 at the age of 79.
Predeceased by his parents Patrick and Jean of Okotoks, Alberta. Survived by his wife of 58 years, Marion Milligan (Rice), his sons, Patrick (Mary Jo), James (Natalie) and Gareth (Nancy). His brothers, Doug (Dawn) of Millet, Alberta and Donald (Louise) of Red Deer, Alberta. Missed dearly by grandchildren: Liam, Sean, Seamus, Nathan, Brianna, Leonardo and Gabriela. Fondly remembered by cousins, nephews, niece and friends.
Dad was born in Innisfail, Alberta and had a couple of stops before his family landed in his true hometown of Okotoks, Alberta. He had a spirited youth alongside his brothers and friends while under the watchful eye of the town’s mayor and his wife (his father and mother!). Dad gravitated to academics at an early age and was a conscientious student. He did not shy away from physically demanding jobs when growing up as he worked in the local sulphur plant, as a ranch hand and on the oil rigs, to
name a few.
Dad entered university at an early age and must have enjoyed it as he remained there for his entire career. Dad achieved his Bachelor of Science, and his Masters of Science (Animal Nutrition) from University of Alberta. He completed his PhD (Nutrition) from University of California, Davis. Dad commenced his tenure as a professor in animal science at University of Alberta in 1966. He stayed at the University of Alberta until 1985 holding various positions including Chairman of the Department of Animal Science.
A highlight for the family was a year of sabbatical they enjoyed when he took a position at DSIR in Palmerston North, New Zealand. There were some very special Kiwis that looked after us and made our stay unforgettable. In 1986 Dad was accepted in the role of Dean of Research at the University of Guelph, later becoming Vice President Research. Larry enjoyed over 20 years with the University of Guelph and was able to share the campus with his three sons who were students. Two of his granddaughters are now representing the Milligan clan as proud Gryphons.
Dad had numerous students from Canada and around the world. It was not unusual for the Milligan house to host international students during the Christmas holidays. Larry worked alongside some outstanding people throughout his life and immensely valued the lifetime connections he had with these individuals. This included academic colleagues, his executive assistant and his partners in business ventures - all of whom he held in very high esteem. Dad was known as a man of few words at times. We are reasonably certain he believed he only had a set amount of words he could use in his life and as a result words were a valuable commodity. Therefore, Dad was very thoughtful, strategic, and deliberate when he spoke. It was his genuine, honest approach that was Dad’s greatest asset in “connecting” like minded people to achieve success through collaboration. The successes were plenty and although it was often him being recognized, Dad always displayed humility and was quick to recognize the team effort responsible for the results.
A few of these honours are:
National Merit Award - Ottawa Life Sciences Council
Borden Award - Canadian Society for Nutritional Sciences
Honorary Research Associate - Berkshire, United Kingdom
Advisory Consultant Agricultural and Development Institute - Malaysia
Fellowship - Royal Society of Canada
Member of the Prime Minister’s National Advisory Board on Science
and Technology
Larry Milligan Research Travel Grant - University of Guelph
Professor Emeritus - University of Guelph
Dad was loved, guided and supported unconditionally by his partner for life, Marion. Dad loved time with his family which was evident in many camping trips, family travels, ski trips, coaching and supporting the boys in soccer. In later life he loved time with the grandchildren. “Doc” also loved time with very loyal and true friends. The “travel gang” had adventures around the world but also in Guelph, Wasaga Beach and Florida. Dad enjoyed curling, golfing, downhill skiing. Whether it was the “travel gang” his “snow-bird” pals or friends through work Dad savored times sharing a warm beer with those closest to him.
The family would like to thank The Elliott Community, especially staff on Eramosa Second floor and all those that assisted in Dad’s care for the past number of years. Larry Milligan would say he had an “absolutely tremendous” life and would thank all you profusely for making it so. We invite you to raise a glass and toast a great man!
“Experience in research is preparation for success in life” - LPM
A celebration of Larry Milligan will be arranged at a future date. Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 519-822-0051 - Condolences can be sent to the family via the funeral home website below Larry’s notice.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions to the Alzheimer Society Waterloo Wellington are very appreciated by the Milligan family.
