CelebriTree Program (2023)
Emerald Spire Crabapple
pommier Emerald Spire
Malus x adstringens
‘Jefgreen’
The Emerald Spire Crabapple is a variety of Rosybloom Crabapple. The Rosybloom series of crabapples were created by Isabella Preston at the Central Experimental Farm, when there was research being done there on ornamental plants. Emerald Spire has an unusual columnar form and fragrant pink flowers. The leaves turn gold-coloured in the fall. This cultivar was bred at the Agriculture Research Station in Summerland, BC. The mature height is 5 to10 metres, with a spread of a few metres. This tree is planted in an area north of Building 72 amidst many other crabapple trees, about 40 metres west of the path and a little closer to Prince of Wales Drive.
Celebrating Richard Tomkins
June 5th 1956 – May 18th 2021
This tree was planted to celebrate the life of Richard Talbot Tomkins.
When Richard passed, we reached out to friends and family asking them to share a few lines about him. We were overwhelmed with the lengthy responses and kind words that flooded in almost overnight.
His friend from Dipix Technologies, Roger E, wrote: “He was fascinated by all manners of science and technology and was not afraid to roll up his sleeves to figure out how something worked and often how to fix it.” Robert Mc from Digital Equipment Corporation shared that “Richard was a really, really smart guy”. He went on to say how he would research intensely a topic of interest and study every detail to ensure that he had the knowledge to accurately share it with others. His close friend, Michael D, recalled his sense of humour and remembered Richard’s stories from his travels to China and Thailand.
Beyond the realm of work and career, Richard was first and foremost a family man. He cared deeply for his wife, three daughters, his parents and sisters, his in-laws and extended family. We miss him dearly.
His eldest daughter Cam-Tu remembers a man who was present and intent on sharing his wealth of knowledge. “I once FaceTimed with my dad and spent an hour on the call with him because I was so nervous about installing a floating shelf. He walked me through the whole process and was encouraging every step of the way. Despite being so far away, he was always so helpful and loving.”
Kim-Chi, his second born, expressed that: “[..] wherever you are, Charlot (our poodle) is by your side. Thank you for being a great dad. I miss you every day. I love you and I’m glad I’ll be able to visit you at this special spot.”
Mai-Lan, the third daughter, reminisced about my father’s “analytical mind and […] unwavering determination to find solutions. Especially in the simple joys of life.” She wrote: “Dad, you will be deeply missed. The love I hold for you transcends the bounds of earthly measures, enduring far beyond the lifespan of the mightiest tree. It is a love that takes root deep within my soul, entwining itself with my very essence, and flourishing with an eternal resilience that defies the passage of time.”
Nhung, his wife, says: “Thank you Richard for your gifts of compassion, generosity, loyalty, patience, thoughtfulness, trustworthiness, and your most precious gift of all – love.”
We hope that this spot is a resting place for you, albeit symbolic, and one that brings your soul peace.
Love always,
Nhung, Cam-Tu, Kim-Chi and Mai-Lan
Donated by Nhung Tomkins
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A blue tree icon is a 2024 CelebriTree. A red tree icon is a 2023 CelebriTree.