Jon Lien, known around the world for his work with humpback whales, died in St. John’s today, age 71.
He was a remarkable human being and anyone who had the chance to know him on any level – your humble e-scribbler did through work with a local conservation foundation – knew immediately of his energy, enthusiasm and respect for all living things.
There will be no shortage of tributes to Dr. Lien. One of the best you will find anywhere came from Geoff Meeker two years ago when Dr. Lien was inducted into the Order of Canada. Like most recipients of the Order, Dr. Lien got it for one thing but his life was filled with reasons to acknowledge him and honour him. Geoff reprinted a profile he’d written 20 years ago and it still holds up today.
Few will be able to put it any better about a man few will be able to equal, let alone better.
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