# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
Jan 2020, with many retired and past HSS /GP staff, at Bev's retirement

# data[].attributes.body
Keith was a kind, caring and compassionate man. I remember after my interview at the Library, I was walking down one of the paths to the I.K Barber Learng Centre and Keith was walking along and gave me an encouraning wink, a kind gesture which I remember to this day.

I enjoyed our talks about his visits to the fish and cheese stores and what he was planning on cooking for the evening dinner, which he took great pleasure in - always ensuring there was a tasty meal for David.

Often he would pass my office on his way to get his lunch with his crystal tumbler for his milk and his stories about Bob and Jazz were always amusing. Always the snazzy dresser, I enjoyed discovering what designer socks he would have on that day - usually co-ordinated with his sweaters.

He helped me so much in the area of collections and reference when I first started my job and up until the day he retired. His knowledge was truly amazing. A kind and gentle soul who never had a harsh word to say about anyone, he always looked for the good in everyone.

He will deeply be missed on so many levels. - Susan Paterson

# data[].attributes.headline
UBC Flags in memory of Keith Bunnell, July 21st

# data[].attributes.subject
UBC Flags in memory of Keith Bunnell, July 21st

# data[].attributes.body
UBC flags will be lowered on Tuesday, July 21, in remembrance of Librarian Emeritus Keith Bunnell, who joined UBC Library in 1978 as a reference and collections librarian and served with distinction until his retirement in 2022. Over his 44-year career, Keith elevated the profile of academic librarians across the university, served for many years on the UBC Faculty Association, and earned a reputation among students, faculty and colleagues for his wit, intellectual breadth and deep knowledge of books and libraries. Keith will be deeply missed by his family, colleagues, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. — Dean Giustini, UBC Biomedical Librarian

# data[].attributes.body
I first met Keith almost twenty years ago when I was a student worker, bringing him trucks of newly received materials to be reviewed before shelving. One of my supervisors always called it "waving his magic wand" over the books, and I learned over the years that KB's magic was real. He shared his inimitable depth of knowledge and care with all who asked, including me as I worked as a student assistant and later on an inventory of Koerner's print collection. I always felt the warmth of his gentle wisdom and wit in just our occasional chats, and how other coworkers' eyes lit up when they thought of him. He treated everyone, coworkers and patrons, with equal respect, dignity, and good humour.

My heart goes out to Keith's family, friends, and community in their loss and mourning.

# data[].attributes.body
Nothing official yet, but I will work with Keith's family to create "The Keith Bunnell Collections Endowment" to commemorate his 44 year career at UBC Library and his extraordinary work in building collections and collections expertise among colleagues (primus inter pares). Stay tuned. Dean

# data[].attributes.body
How do I put into words the MANY years and my working relationship with Keith? <sigh>

It began way back in the Main library in HSS, (probably in 1995/96?) after Ture Erikson retired and KB took on his role in HSS. But he was located in Sedgewick till we all moved to Krnr in Jan 1997.

Over the years, I worked closely with Keith and the HSS Ref. print collection. He was so knowledgeable and very happy to in part with his knowledge. He would painstakingly go thro' the newly received books for Krnr in the 219 office (i.e. Meghan's reference, "magic wand").

He had a love/hate relationship with the office printer/copier and I would periodically hear him utter threats towards it. One day, he 'kicked' it and I had to come to its rescue :-)

He named me the Sri Lankan firecracker and I fondly called him KB! One day I heard him greet colleagues around me, and I said to him: "what, am I chopped liver?". That nick name stuck, as well ;-)

I would often bug him about the 'holes' on the elbows of his well worn sweaters - needless to say those were his favourites. Oh and... he had a great sock collection, which always matched his attire for the day.

Yes, many fond and witty memories.

KB was missed very much after his retirement in 2022, but I always knew I could reach out to him. But now, that sadly can't be the case :-(

I had the privilege of having lunch with KB & David on May 9th in their cozy home and we spent a wonderful afternoon chatting about life and library stuff.... Little did I realize that would be my last interaction with Keith :-(

I am ever so grateful that he reached out and we had a great afternoon together. I will hold it dear to my heart!

Rest in peace my gentle and kind friend/colleague.

My deepest sympathies to David and family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

xoxo

Aprille McCauley

# data[].attributes.body
I was always very happy to meet up with Keith either by design or by accident. I just knew from previous experience that I was in for both a spirited and hilarious time.

I for one will very sadly miss these times!

Richard Hopkins

# data[].attributes.body
I met KB in my first interview at UBC back in 2000. It was a big selection committee and I was nervous and he was very kind and generous. I always appreciated being housed right around the corner or down the hall from Keith. He was such a unique and sweet soul with that wry and sometimes acerbic sense of humour others have mentioned. I loved his sass and his socks. I also remember loving a cocktail or two that he mixed! And his office was the best...it was always fun trying to find a place to sit down in there! I seem to recall regulary perching on chairs or piles to have a chat with KB. A real gentle-man. And I adored his vocabulary...he once complimented me on a new dress and my great gams, which I just loved. I hadn't heard that word since I was a little kid and really haven't since. He was one of a kind. Lots of love to all who loved him. How could you not?

# data[].attributes.body
I worked with Keith on the faculty association executive and on the Arts curriculum committee. Through that work we became good friends. I was honoured to attend his wedding with David and to be a regular guest in their elegant dining room. His conversation was wide reaching, erudite and witty. We achieved a level of candour with each other that I may not experience again. Key holiday lunches will ring empty in his absence. I will miss him, a friend like no other.

Richard Sullivan

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Handel: Zadok the Priest | The English Concert & Händelfestspielorchester Halle

# data[].attributes.body
Although I hadn’t seen or spoken with Keith for several years, he was never far from my thoughts. He was the first person to make me feel at home at UBC in 1995, and he was always the one who rallied the troops for a trip to the cafeteria for coffee and a cinnamon bun. Those outings led to so many memorable conversations and, above all, so much laughter.

I still remember the first time he reassured me after I made a mistake answering a reference question, shrugging it off with his trademark line: “Worse things happen at sea.” I can still hear him telling stories about orchestra conducting mishaps, or referring to trips to Ontario as “coming to Canada for a visit.”

He graciously tolerated my awkward habit of bringing two-litre bottles of cider to his dinner parties, and when I visited him, he would offer me calvados, but claimed it made him sneeze.

I miss those wonderfully distinctive sayings, the humour, and the perspective he brought to every conversation. Most of all, I’m saddened by the thought that there won’t be any new Keith stories or expressions to add to the collection of memories I treasure so much.

# data[].attributes.body
The first time I met Keith was with Susan Atkey in my interview. This dynamic duo was literally the sweetest interview panel I could have ever asked for. I’ve never forgotten that.

As others have commented I was always charmed by Keith’s devotion to his milk 🥛 ritual!

He just always had the kindest ways in the office. From calling out to the Sri Lankan firecracker (whom he adored) to announcing he got the best seat on the bus on the way to work (the sideways seat behind the driver) and referring to himself as the “passenger princess.”

He had a way of making us all feel special. He reminded me of Mr.Roger’s. I was not a librarian or library assistant, yet when I told him how much I’d loved a certain book, I couldn’t believe it when he acquired a copy!! I later excitedly went and found it on the shelf. It made me feel so seen. That’s who Keith was to me.

So grateful I got to work with you dear soul, may you rest in peace.

# data[].attributes.body
Even the briefest of moments crossing paths with Keith in a hallway on the way to somewhere could lift my spirits for an entire day. Especially if he showed me his socks.

The genius clutter of his office was made all the more endearing to me the day his lamp nearly caught fire from the combination of heat and accumulated dust. Watching the way he laughed this incident off was a masterclass in how to move through life. I have never met his equal.

Keith's generosity was so effortless and yet so deeply impactful. From time to time, when we worked together, he would give me a lift home in his Volvo (naturally, the best car ever), and the honour of the gesture never left me. Many years ago, he also gifted me an old Kenwood receiver and CD player when he upgraded his stereo system. Though it's rarely used and occupies valuable space, I have never been able to part with it because of the happy memories it brings. Today I will dust it off, play some Handel, and light a candle for Keith to help illuminate his journey home.

# data[].attributes.body
Keith Douglas Bunnell -- Following a brief illness, died on June 22, 2026, at Vancouver General Hospital, with family at his side. Born Jan. 15, 1951 in Vancouver to the late Frank and Barbara (Cook) Bunnell, Keith was a lifelong resident of the city. In 2022, he was named librarian emeritus by the University of British Columbia where, after earning his Bachelor of Arts (History) and Master of Library Science degrees, he had a lengthy career at UBC, retiring as Reference and Collections Librarian, Humanities & Social Sciences Division, Koerner Library. At UBC, he played a critical role in expanding the university's collections, and served as the librarian representative on the Faculty Association for many years. Accomplished in the kitchen, Keith was an amusing host with a dry (and wry) wit at the dinner table. A man of deep faith, Keith was an active member of St. Mary's Kerrisdale Anglican Church. He is survived by his husband, David Swan, their daughter, Jessie Templeton (Ian), grandson Wesley, a brother, Eric (Don), St. Thomas, Ont. He was predeceased by a brother, Paul. He will be missed by many friends and colleagues across the university, and in the Anglican community. (This version was originally written by Keith's brother Eric, and edited slightly.) Funeral service on July 9th, 1:30pm, St. Mary's Kerrisdale. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Primate World Relief Fund (http://alongsidehope.org/give-today/)

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
Aug 2002 -A farewell to Jocelyn with UBC Library colleagues and friends. Now mostly retired and a few resting in peace...

# data[].attributes.body
In the late 1970s and into the late 1980s, Keith was a member of an unfathomably knowledgeable, friendly, and supportive clan of Perkins librarians. They worked hard and they had fun in their work, and they would never dismiss a question from dummie grad students. Keith -- and Becky, and Ken, and Cliff -- what a loving and lovable crew. I know Keith's memory will be for a blessing. -- Paul Krause, Victoria, BC

# data[].attributes.body
I can’t remember who took this photo – Megan, I think – but it seems to capture the essence of KB: parked beside a truck of books awaiting the magic wand, with an expression on his face that indicates either mild amusement at the world in general or a brain in the midst of caching a sharp witticism that could later be pulled out on an unsuspecting colleague. An often savage wit but always delivered in a gentle manner.

Like Aprille, I first started working with Keith when the HSS, Government Publications, Periodicals, and Microforms Divisions in Main Library Riddington all combined and moved over to the new Koerner Library in 1997. It was there, keying orders for him, Jenny, Pia, Mary, Dorothy and Helene that I got to experience his droll morning greetings as he wandered by everyone's cubicles. But I had known him in his element as a reference librarian even earlier, for as an undergraduate in the early 90s, I had encountered him at the Sedgewick reference desk as I struggled with some tedious assignment on Shakespeare, asked if the library happened to have any books on a guy named Shakespeare. After it was gently suggested that I might consider narrowing my topic down from just “Shakespeare”, I was grandly waved (there really is no other way to describe Keith’s wave) over in the direction of the card catalogue in front of the spiral staircase.

I remember Megan telling me that she once asked Keith why he usually drove to his Volvo work instead of taking the bus. His reply: “Well, I called for the bus but it never came.” Thus, I was surprised to read in some of these memories that Keith eventually did end up taking the bus places. Perhaps eventually it did come when he called.

I was not as close to Keith as many of you were; this I know because when I was invited to one of his dinner parties, the email invite did not come from Keith directly. Instead, it was signed “kb, executive assistant to KB”.

kb, please relay my sincere sympathy to David, Eric, and all who were close to KB. And to KB, please let him know he remains treasured even by those who had not seen him in many years. We will meet again by the book trucks parked just beyond the pearly gates.

# data[].attributes.body
Sedgewick Library with KB a desk away from mine – I can’t imagine a better place to be as a new librarian and a new mother. KB stands out as one of my all-time favorite colleagues for his infectious interest in the world, his sweet way of asking after Ron and our girls, his kindness and humour in every encounter, and the glimpse I’d get of whatever book he was carrying when he stopped to chat. It has been many years since we’ve had the pleasure of his company, but the warm memories are with us forever. I wish I had a photo to share, loving seeing the ones posted here and all your wonderful stories.

# data[].attributes.body
I was lucky enough to be in the same department and adjacent office with Keith. HSSD at Koerner Library was my first permanent position as a librarian and it was daunting but Keith made everything light and easy. He taught me to be patient and kind to myself as I learned the ropes. He always said “yes” when I needed help, showing such a generosity of spirit that I take with me to this day.

My favourite memories of Keith is him walking into the office each morning with his lunch box and a kind welcome to the morning. He would always stop by to talk, about shows we watched or news we read that morning, before saying, “It’s time for Dora (his lunch box with Dora the Explorer on it) to go the fridge.” He always put a smile on my face.

With his quick wit and amazing taste in socks, Keith brought joy to the day, something I’ve missed. Rest well and know you will never be forgotten.

# data[].attributes.body
“Good morning Mrs. A”, he would call me as he came through the office door. Dear, dear Keith. I miss your charm and wit, with your matching socks and sweaters. I have a cornflower blue sweater that reminds me of KB every time I wear it. I hope to darn the elbows one day.

I have a funny story to share. When Anne O cleaned up her office in 2005, she left Keith an orange on her last day. Keith kept the orange on his desk and it turned into a fossil. When I was on leave and he retired, he left the orange fossil and a FRESH orange in my office. I came back to work and I laughed and laughed. True Keith humour. The second orange is slowly turning into a fossil, nearly 4 years after. I’ll pass them on with a third orange when I retire. Who knows how long we can keep this going?🍊

- Susan Atkey

# data[].attributes.body
What a remarkable human. I am blessed to have experienced your wit, charm, grace and humanity, KB. Thank you. 💗

So many moments and memories shared here that I have so appreciated reading. It is clear that KB touched many.

I first met KB way back in 1990 when I was hired (by MDub/Martha Whitehead) in Sedgewick. We had so much fun back then in Sedgewick, and you know KB was behind most of it!

A memory to share...KB gave me the very important job of picking up The Province newspaper from the SUB newsstand on my way from the bus to the library every morning. At the end of each work day, he would meticulously count out coins for me to buy the paper with the next morning. KB informed me that he couldn't pick up the paper because he did not take the bus and was therefore not near a newspaper stand. :)

My condolences to KB's family and to all who loved him. Truly a remarkable human.

# data[].attributes.body
Keith was so eloquent, and funny and charming—so good at his job and so good at being kind and welcoming. Reading the stories here, I’m struck by how he meant so much to so many, and how these fond memories come from him being uniquely and precisely himself.

Because we worked in different branches, seeing Keith always felt like a gift. I worked with him on committees, visited him in his well-curated office, and saw him by chance walking on campus or Main Street. Whatever the occasion, he shared his generous heart and his unique way of viewing the world. He wore the best socks and had the finest anecdotes.  He knew and understood so much. I will miss the serendipity of seeing him, as well as the brightness he brought to this world.

# data[].attributes.body
Working with Keith was always a joy and he brought levity to all the groups he was on or led. He was a great sounding board for all the best ways to be a liaison librarian ❤️

While print was always his preferred format - I was so grateful for all of his work and leadership with the eBooks Team and LCT. He always kept the work down to earth and never wanted to see us sacrifice the value of print books in libraries.

He was so easy to talk to and approachable no matter what the topic. Even from afar, I appreciated Keith's willingness to chat with me from day one of working at UBC. He'll be so deeply missed and was truly the epitome of being a Librarian at UBC.

# data[].attributes.body
I remember Keith with fondness. Keith had a way of making people feel special and seen. In my time with him, I came to appreciate not only his kindness, but also his wry humour — the quiet intellect he brought into a room and the patience with which he listened.

He was someone who made conversations feel meaningful, not because he needed to say a great deal, but because when he did speak, there was grace and thoughtfulness behind his words. I enjoyed walking into his office, seeing him sipping on his glass of milk and those classic lamps, sharing a moment with "KB," as many of us called him, and leaving feeling better and more lighthearted than before.

I am grateful for the time I had with him. His memory remains with me as a reminder of how much one person’s gentleness and authenticity can touch the lives of others. Keith will be deeply missed, but the goodness he shared continues in the hearts of those who knew him. - Allan Cho

# data[].attributes.headline
Funeral Service & Liturgy for Keith Bunnell, Thursday July 9th, 1:30pm, St. Mary's Kerrisdale

# data[].attributes.subject
Funeral Service & Liturgy for Keith Bunnell, Thursday July 9th, 1:30pm, St. Mary's Kerrisdale

# data[].attributes.body
St. Mary's Kerrisdale Anglican Church

2490 W 37th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6M 1P5

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
I will miss Keith.   From 1995 to 2023, I would visit Keith at least once a year in my role as a publishers rep. First with Books in Print, later with Gale and more recently with my new company.  He was a well respected librarian.   UBC faculty I  would encounter at history conferences would speak effusively about Keith.   His knowledge of the collection was second to no one.  His desire to keep collections relevant and robust in the areas of his remit were admirable.   We enjoyed talking and plotting about the Library's desiderata list.   We were both very fond of the sweater over a dress shirt motif.    One of my annual visits coincided with prank day by UBC Engineering.   "Hi Keith. Did you know there's a red car on the clock tower?"    Keith would roll his eyes with disdain for the engineers, but wink with approval for the mischief caused.   Enjoy the view from heaven Keith.         