After a courageous battle with an aggressive form of lymphoma, Dr. Andrew Hill passed away peacefully at the all too early age of 60.
The Hill family extends its deep gratitude to the doctors and nurses of The Ottawa Hospital who provided him with high quality care, comfort and dignity throughout his ordeal. With all our hearts, we also thank Andrew’s life partner, Lyse Huneault, for providing him with continuous love, comfort and support during his treatment. We could not have asked for more from one he so clearly loved.
Andrew is predeceased by his father William John Leslie Hill, and survived by his mother Sarah Puddicombe Hill, his children Fraser and Sarah Hill, his brothers Tony, Gordon and Duncan Hill and their respective spouses Wendy Hill, Denise Workun and Cathy Bailey.
Although born in Montreal, Andrew grew up in Nepean. While sometimes mischievous at the expense of his brothers, he approached everything he did with exceptional hard work, intelligence and focus. He enjoyed skiing, bicycling and engaging in something that resembled golf. He loved spending time with life-long friends from his lifeguarding days, J.S. Woodsworth High School, and The Ottawa Hospital. Andrew was a gracious host of family gatherings, fun cottage times on the Rideau Lakes and was keen to engage in activities with those who loved him. Most of all, Andrew was a devoted father who loved his children dearly. They made him ever so happy and proud.
Andrew completed degrees at the University of Ottawa (BSc Molecular Biology, 1982), McGill University (Medicine, 1986, MSc Experimental Surgery, 1992) and McMaster University (MSc Health Research Methodology, 2000). He was the recipient of many certifications, honours, awards, and acknowledgements from his peers and professional and academic organizations. He was also a skilled researcher, prolific author and educator who helped advance knowledge in the cardiovascular field.
The practice of medicine and surgery was Andrew’s passion and it defined him. He performed his residency and worked at the Montreal General Hospital until 1998. He was a senior member of the surgical staff at The Ottawa Hospital since 1998. He served as Division Head of Vascular Surgery at The Ottawa Hospital and the University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine from 2001 to 2011, and, led the Canadian Society of Vascular Surgeons in 2005. He had a significant role in recruiting the current generation of vascular surgeons at The Ottawa Hospital and positioning Ottawa as an international leader in endovascular surgery. As a talented and caring surgeon, Andrew dedicated himself to improving the lives of all his patients.
“Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened.” - Theodore Geisel
Friends are invited to visit the Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Ave. Ottawa on Saturday November 16 after 2 p.m. Memorial Service will be held in the Sacred Space at 3 p.m. followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made online at AndrewHillTribute.ca, by phone 613-761-4295 or by mail to TOH Foundation, 737 Parkdale Avenue, 1st floor, Box 610, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Y 1J8.
Digital Guestbook
Jose Aquino
Keith Buchanan
Lyse and all of Andy’s family, my sincere condolences for your loss. Andrew was a friend from childhood through adulthood. He has influenced so many with his friendship and understanding. He will be sorely missed.
Suzanne Tough
My condolences and thoughts to the family in Andy's passing. From my days as a lifeguard in Nepean I recall Andy's enthusiasm and jest in the best possible way. As time passes, may fond memories bring peace and comfort. Suzanne
Cathy Zuana
My Condolences to your family and know that Andrew will be missed and never forgotten. I enjoyed working with Andrew at the Civic OR and I will remember him in the years to follow.
I came across this poem and wanted to share it with you. In some small way I hope that it will bring you comfort in the days, weeks and months ahead of you.
It’s called “GOD’S GARDEN”
God looked around His garden
And He found an empty place,
He then looked down upon this earth,
And saw Andrew's tired face.
He put His arms around him,
And lifted him to rest,
God’s Garden must be beautiful,
He only takes the best.
He knew that you were suffering,
He knew you were in pain,
He knew that you would never
Get well on this earth again.
He saw that the road was getting rough
And the hills were hard to climb,
And then God whispered “Peace be thine”
It broke our hearts to lose you,
But you didn’t go alone.
For part of us went with you
The day God called you home.
Warmly,
Cathy Zuana
Sue Sarrazin
My sincere condolences to you Lyse and to all of Dr Hill's family. I was lucky enough to work with him for many years at the Civic
François and Yvette Marion
Our sincere condolences to our dear niece Lyse who was so special to Andrew. Our thoughts and prayers are with Lyse and the Hill family during this difficult time. Lyse shared this special message from us to Andrew a few days before his journey to heaven: “Andrew, we wanted to let you know that you have been and will continue to be on our minds and in our hearts.
We fondly remember the good times we had together at Marc’s and Christiane’s cottage, Mom’s 101st Birthday celebration, Christmas, New Year’s gathering and all of the family get-togethers. We thank you and love you!"
We will cherish the good memories forever.
François & Yvette
X0x0xO
Mary and Steve Brabazon
I will always remember Andrew saying morning Blondie as he flew into the office with his big smile. Andrew always had a great sense of humour. He made us all laugh at the Pub telling great medical stories in his younger days. We will miss you !
M
Ian Hammond
I wish to extend my sincere condolences to Dr. Hill's family. I recall how pleased the Vascular Surgery Division in Ottawa was to recruit Andrew in the late 1990's. He certainly lived up to his potential. He will be missed greatly.
David Pamic
Sad to see such a lovely man gone so soon. My condolences to the loved ones left behind.
Grant and Debra Thompson, Richmond, VA
Andrew was always a supportive friend when I was in need. His humor could pull me from the deepest depression. And his brilliance was an example to strive for. Wish my boys could have met you.
My condolences to the family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Andrew, it was a privilege to be one our your colleagues.