A conversation with the late Karl Ferguson (BScEng ‘58) was equal parts informative, engaging and entertaining.
That was particularly so whenever the subject of the University of New Brunswick arose, a topic that prompted a flood of memories for the man whose career took him across the country and to the U.K.
“He was always so grateful that he was able to gain a living because of his time at the University of New Brunswick,” said Stan Strilchuk, who became a trusted friend after Karl moved to Vancouver in 1988.
“He was thankful for what the university allowed him to achieve.”
After graduating from UNB in 1958 with his mechanical engineering degree, Karl enjoyed a long and successful career, first with Canada Wire before moving to Catelli and finally with Dairyland from where he retired in 1994.
Karl enjoyed a number of hobbies in his retirement, including curling, winemaking and music. He may also have had the largest collection of lava lamps ever accumulated by a UNB alumnus. Karl was a regular at UNB alumni events in Vancouver and attended Homecoming on a number of occasions. On these visits to UNB, Karl made a point of meeting with the engineering dean and faculty. These conversations, Karl noted, confirmed that his planned bequest was a good investment.
The Karl Ferguson Fund, endowed with a bequest of $615,000, will support undergraduate and graduate scholarships in mechanical engineering as well as assist with research activities in the department.
“I had the privilege of meeting Karl on a number of occasions,” says UNB President Eddy Campbell. “I can think of no more fitting recognition of his appreciation for the faculty and university than this fund that will bear his name forever.”
It’s easy to make an impact: A $25,000 bequest in your will creates a $1,000 scholarship for students forever.
