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
Valencia Henry (Charm)
Bill Gervais
I was very saddened to hear of Derek’s passing. I benefited from Dereks knowledge of bread making so part of him will carry on. RIP
Will Woodstock
Very sad to hear of Derek’s passing. He was a lovely colleague who was well informed, interesting and always up for a chat and a laugh. My sympathies to his family, he was a lovely chap.
Carolyn and Dave
It is with great sadness that we hear of Derek’s passing. We recently got to know Derek and were thoroughly impressed by his knowledge of all things -especially sports- and by his bravery when he rescued a little mouse from our bbq and set him free in the garden. Wishing peace and strength to Hilary and family.
Freddie Lewendon
Derek was one of the kindest people that I have ever met and a true gentleman. I have many very fond memories with Derek, Hilary, Pippa and Sophie that I feel very lucky to have had. Derek you will be missed by so many. Rest in peace.
Neil and Heather MacDonald
We so enjoyed Derek! He was always such a friendly, entertaining person who could be counted upon for excellent conversation and great stories. His truly delicious baking was an inspiration, and we will always think of him when we have sourdough bread. We feel privileged to have known Derek and counted him among our good friends. We'll miss him very much. Our thoughts are with Hilary and Sophie and Pippa and family. We know how much you all loved Derek and how you'll miss him. Keeping you in our hearts and minds, with love, Heather and Neil and family. xo
Michael and laurie Boone
We are both saddened to hear of Derek's passing. Our thought's are with Hilary and the girls during this time. Rest in peace.
Jenn and Rudy
Derek's gentle nature, and rich baritone laugh will be remembered and cherished.
My heart is broken for his 3 ladies, whom he loved with all of his heart.
Bill and Theresa Smith
Dear Hilary, Sophie and Pip, we are so sorry for your loss. Derek was a great colleague and wonderful friend. Happy memories of a very special person.
Bernie Goedhart
I've read all the heartwarming testimonials so beautifully expressed here and am left wishing I could have met this man. But I was lucky enough to work with - and befriend - his daughter Sophie, and I know how much she loved her father. I'm glad she made it home to Ottawa before he departed; I wish her and her mother and sister much peace and strength in the coming months ...
My Condolences goes out to Hillary, his Children and family. It was a pleasure to have worked with you at the BHC. I will remember your kindness. Rest in Peace.