It is with great sadness that the family of Derek William Rust announce his passing on Wednesday, July 21st 2021, at the age of 65, in Ottawa.
Derek will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 37 years, Hilary, daughters Sophie and Philippa, son-in-law Andrei, sisters Linda and Christine and by family, friends and colleagues too numerous to mention.
Derek enjoyed an interesting and varied career with the British Civil Service both abroad and in the UK, culminating in a posting to the British High Commission in 2004, where he continued to work until late last year.
Fortunate enough to visit many wonderful places around the world, he shared his zest for life, travel and adventure with Hilary, his constant companion. Their first journey together was in 1981, when they took the bus from London to Athens.
In recent years, Derek discovered a love of cooking and bread making, which he added to his passion for sport and current affairs. Derek was a music lover, with opera, The Killers and The Rolling Stones among his favourites, enjoying nothing more than a concert or music festival. An avid reader and lover of crosswords, his extraordinary general knowledge made him a formidable opponent in any quiz or trivia game.
A devoted and loving family man, Derek was extremely proud of his daughters and their accomplishments. Always available for support and encouragement, he was a kind, loving and dependable father, who always put his family first. He will also be missed by his football, cricket and rugby loving nephews and godsons and by special friends with whom he enjoyed 'orange food' over a game of ice hockey.
The family extend their thanks to everyone at the Hepatobiliary Unit and the Cancer Centre at the Ottawa General Hospital, who worked tirelessly for Derek.
A private funeral will be held at the Beechwood Cemetery at the family's request and a memorial service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations made in Derek's name to the Ottawa Hospital Foundation - Hepatology Research, would be greatly appreciated. Donations can be made online at www.ohfoundation.ca , by phone 613 761-4295 or mailed to The Ottawa Foundation, 737 Parkdale Avenue, 1st Floor, Box 610, Ottawa, Ontario K1Y 1J8.
Digital Guestbook
Howard Steele
Caroline and Harvey Faulkner-Aston
We were much saddened to hear of Derek passing away and the thought that we will not see him again. Although we had lost touch with Hilary and Derek over recent years we have very fond memories of our time together. Derek always welcomed us into the home he shared with Hilary, Sophie and Pip both in the UK and Ottawa. We are honoured to have known him. Our thoughts are with Hilary, Sophie and Pip. Rest in peace Derek. Xx
I was so sorry to hear that Derek had passed away. During my visits to the High Commission Derek would always be there with a smile and laugh. He will be sorely missed! Thinking of you and family at this time.