The province, and the world, lost a leading seabird biologist and environmental champion in the passing of Dr. Bill Montevecchi on the weekend at the age of 80.

MHA for Conception Bay East-Bell Island, Fred Hutton told VOCM Open Line with Brian Callahan that as a former journalist, he always learned something new speaking with Montevecchi, who lived in Portugal Cove-St. Phllip’s.

“I mean this was a guy who quietly, and not so quietly, because he was very vocal,” spent nearly half a century advocating “for the environment, for the ecosystem.” Hutton says Montevecchi was ranked among the top one percent of seabird biologists in the world.

Countless students and environmental organizations have also expressed their thanks for Montevecchi’s wisdom, support, dedication and mentorship.