Alberta man studying in B.C. dies during hike in Strathcona Provincial Park

VANCOUVER – A University of Victoria student who died hiking near Campbell River, B.C., is being remembered for his love of the outdoors.

Anders Newman, 18, was camping with six friends in Strathcona Provincial Park last weekend, said the BC Coroners Service.

The group went for a morning hike Saturday near Big Interior Mountain. Newman lost his footing coming down a trail and fell off a steep cliff.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

An obituary said Newman died doing what he loved, “hiking in the beautiful mountains of British Columbia.”

“He was the most kind-hearted, fun-loving, caring, compassionate and adventurous young man with an infectious smile and the cutest dimples.

“And we will never forget his amazing hugs that made you feel so loved.”

A flag will be lowered at the university on Saturday to mark the first-year student’s death.

Joel Lynn, executive director of student services, said Newman was an extremely well-liked young man who had a promising future.

“He will be sorely missed,” Lynn said in a news release.

A memorial will be held Saturday in Newman’s hometown of Cochrane, Alta.