In Memoriam
Queen鈥檚 remembers Professor Emeritus Brian Osborne
March 26, 2026
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The Queen鈥檚 community is remembering Dr. Brian Osborne, CM, Professor Emeritus of Geography, who passed away on Mar. 22 at the age of 87.
Dr. Osborne taught at the university for more than five decades after joining the faculty in 1967. A distinguished scholar of Canadian historical geography and cultural landscapes, his work, particularly on Kingston, helped shape understanding of place, identity, and heritage in Canada. A dedicated teacher and mentor, Dr. Osborne also contributed widely through his leadership in historical and heritage organizations and his collaborations with national institutions. He was appointed a Member of the Order of Canada and received numerous honours in recognition of his impact.
The flag on campus will be lowered to half-mast in honour of Dr. Osborne on Mar. 27, 2026. In keeping with his wishes, a private celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
A family obituary is available . In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to or other causes that support historical research, heritage conservation, or education in his memory.