One couple’s passion for nature will live on for generations. And it all began on their Alberta family farms.

As a young boy, Harry Pegg would embark on self-taught birding adventures on his family farm. A few decades later he would take to the air himself, flying 32 missions in the Royal Canadian Air Force for which he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. But his life wouldn’t be complete until he met the love of his life, Trudy, a proud Edmontonian and a woman of true grace and class who also grew up on a nearby farm.

Gertrude (Trudy) Pegg
Henry (Harry) Pegg

After marrying in 1947, Harry and Trudy built the South Edmonton home where they would spend the next 48 years together. Their shared passion for the outdoors blossomed, and the couple enjoyed most of their free time in the country – hiking, bird watching and exploring nature. “Harry and Trudy especially loved the Elk Island Park trails. They were happiest when they were in the mountains,” recalls Trudy’s sister Marge.

Complementing Harry’s love of birds was a talent for gardening and photography. A keen eye and plenty of patience allowed him to capture countless one-of-a-kind photos, some of which were featured in the widely published Birds of Alberta guide.

Harry’s hobby also resulted in a vast knowledge of Canadian species. “I could describe a bird I saw on my feeder here in Vancouver and he could name it for me over the phone. He could also recognize birds by their calls,” says Harry’s brother, Sid.

Male Mountain Bluebird, photographed by Harry. This print
was especially loved by his family and is proudly displayed in
both Sid and Marge’s home.

The couple’s deep love of nature inspired them to become Nature Canada supporters in the 1970s. “Harry appreciated their protection of nature. I know that he believed in everything Nature Canada was trying to do,” says Sid.

This dedication inspired Harry and Trudy to name Nature Canada as a beneficiary in their will. In honour of their lifelong connection to nature, as well as their love for their nieces and nephews, Harry and Trudy’s generous gift will go directly towards bird conservation projects and educating children about nature.

Nature Canada staff member Jodi Joy is heartened by Harry and Trudy’s trust in the organization’s efforts. “We are delighted and honoured that Harry and Trudy chose to remember Nature Canada in their will. Their gift will be instrumental in the protection of the birds they loved so much, and we will ensure that their legacy lives on in the hearts of the next generation.”

In loving memory of Sid Pegg, who passed away shortly after this article was written.