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
Chloe Brookes
Valerie & Glenn Shires
A wonderful friend for 39 years . Derek was a gentleman, husband , proper dad , godfather to our son and just a splendid chap . We all recall his wit and with it his ability to make us smile. The loss is tremendous but he leaves us with the very best of memories. Love to Hilary, Sophie and Pip
Jena & the Rashids
Sending all our love and support to Hilary and the Rust family. I knew Derek to be witty and kind, but most of all–through my friendship with Pip–a wonderful dad. Rest in peace, Mr. Rust. You will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by all who were so fortunate to know you.
Laszlo Kovacs
As part of the The White Shirts Derek was the heart f the team. I will miss him.
Jody Beeching
I was so very sad to hear of Derek's passing, he was always such a kind, courteous, supportive and humorous colleague, and it was obvious to anyone who spent time with him how proud he was of his family. All love to them.
Abdalla Abdi
Derek was a great colleague at the British High Commission. He had a profound way of telling stories, very kind hearted individual and the heart of the security team. He will be greatly missed. I wish patience to the Rust family. Love to his family. All the best
David and Clare Lewendon
More than 40 years of close friendship with Derek means that there is now a huge gap in our lives. We count ourselves lucky to have so many happy memories to hang on to but feel bereft that we cannot make more (and before the four of us got the chance to go to Coachella)! Our hearts go out to Hilary, Sophie and Pippa and wish we could be with you xxx
Phil Hagger
I shall miss Derek: an excellent work colleague with a great sense of humour and always ready with a laugh. Above all a gentleman and a good mate. My deepest sympathies to Hilary and family.
Corina Hernandez-Munoz
I worked with Derek at the British High Commission and often, he would be the first face I saw in a day. With Derek, there was always genuine kindness. It made me very happy to start my work day exchanging smiles with a wonderful person. I am so sad to hear of his passing. My heart goes out to Derek’s family and friends.
Francine Luca
My deepest sympathies to Hilary and family. I truly enjoyed working with Derek and he will be missed.
Although I never had the opportunity to work closely with Derek during my time at the British High Commission, I will always remember how friendly and easy to talk to he was. He was very well loved and respected member of the BHC team, and will be sorely missed. I was truly saddened to hear of his passing.