Dr. Jack Taunton passed away on October 23, 2024.
A pioneer in sports medicine, Dr. Taunton was a Professor Emeritus in the Department of Family Practice, associate member of the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health (DMCBH) and a Faculty of Medicine alumnus.
An accomplished physician, researcher and athlete, Dr. Taunton co-founded the UBC Sport and Exercise Medicine Centre (formerly the Allan McGavin Sports Medicine Centre), where he served as director for over 25 years. In 2019, he co-founded the B.C. Brain Wellness Program, which offers free, evidence-informed exercise and lifestyle classes for individuals living with chronic brain conditions across the province. Dr. Taunton also served as a national sports team physician, including as Chief Medical Officer for the Vancouver 2010 Olympics and Paralympics.
In recognition of his many contributions, Dr. Taunton was awarded numerous accolades over the course of his life, including the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Canadian Academy of Sport & Exercise Medicine and induction into the B.C. Sports Hall of Fame. Earlier this year, he was appointed to the Order of Canada, one of the country’s highest honours.
Read more about Dr. Taunton’s life and accomplishments, and tributes to Dr. Taunton from DMCBH and UBC Thunderbirds.
The BC, Musqueam and UBC flags were lowered on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 in remembrance.