Jeff Houlahan Obituary, Saint John, NB Death – Beloved Ecologist and Professor Dies at 67

Jeff Houlahan, a respected ecologist, conservation biologist, professor, husband, father, and advocate for others, passed away suddenly on October 14, 2026, at the age of 67. Based in New Brunswick, Canada, Jeff was associated with the University of New Brunswick’s Saint John campus and maintained meaningful connections with communities in Saint John, Ottawa, and beyond.

His passing has left his family, friends, former colleagues, students, and the wider communities he supported mourning the loss of a man remembered for his compassion, intellectual curiosity, generosity, and commitment to humanity.

Known affectionately as Houlie, Jeff leaves behind his mother, Fran; his wife, Kim; and his three children, Joey, Chelsea, and Liam, along with their partners. His children brought him immense happiness, and he grew increasingly proud of them throughout their lives. He treasured time with his family and considered fatherhood one of his most meaningful roles.

Jeff also maintained close relationships with his siblings, in-laws, nieces, nephews, and extended family. His affection extended to a wide circle of friends, including Syrian friends whom he considered family. He was remembered as a caring guardian and advocate who offered support to people he loved.

Jeff grew up in several Canadian military communities, including Calgary, North Bay, Kapuskasing, and Ottawa, as well as Canadian Air Force bases in Germany. His varied early experiences included working as a waiter, security guard, bartender, and mail carrier. He also played guitar in a punk band called The Rainkings.

His academic journey took him to the University of Western Ontario, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology, and the University of Ottawa, where he completed a bachelor’s degree in science and a Ph.D. Following a postdoctoral appointment at the University of New Mexico, he accepted a professorship in the Department of Biology at the University of New Brunswick’s Saint John campus. He conducted research and taught until retiring in 2025.

Beyond science and teaching, Jeff was a passionate writer who created short stories, songs, and novels. He also became a committed supporter of the pro-Palestine movement, developing meaningful relationships with communities in New Brunswick and Ottawa.

Two memorial gatherings have been announced: a celebration of life at the Black Sheep Inn in Wakefield, Quebec, on October 21, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., and a send-off at the Bill McGuire Centre in Rothesay, New Brunswick, on October 28, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Jeff’s family has also established a fundraising campaign in his honour to continue his legacy of kindness and solidarity with the people of Gaza.

Personal Details

Jeff Houlahan will be remembered for his devotion to family, his contributions to ecology and education, his creativity, and his determination to support others. His legacy lives on through the people he loved, the communities he served, and the values he carried throughout his life.

Disclaimer: This article is based on the family tribute provided. The cause of death was not disclosed. Memorial arrangements are reproduced from the supplied announcement and may be subject to change.