Obituary of Derek Ronald White

December 28, 1948 – January 1, 2026

It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of Derek Ronald White, beloved husband, on Thursday, January 1, 2026, at The Ottawa Hospital – Civic Campus.

Derek leaves behind his loving wife of 45 years, Barbara. He will also be dearly missed by his sister-in-law Barbara (Wilson); his nephews Steve (Patricia), Mike (Jen), and Rick (Holly) and their families; and his cousin, Margaret Parker. Predeceased by his parents, Major. Alldred White and Edna. 

Born and raised in Westboro, Derek attended Nepean High School before going on to Carleton University, where he earned a combined degree in Cultural Anthropology and Sociology.

Derek began his career with Health and Welfare Canada, becoming  the Director of the National Adoption Desk. In this role, he managed and coordinated international and interprovincial adoption caseloads—work he truly loved. He often escorted children from other countries to Canada to help unite them with their adoptive families, and he took great pride in the impact of this work.

Derek also gave generously and had geat pride of his community service. He volunteered as a Big Brother for four years, supporting fatherless boys in the community, and tutored with People, Words and Change. He served aboard the C.D. Howe Hospital Ship, developing X-rays and assisting the medical team, and he once volunteered to accompany two sick Inuit children by plane from the Arctic to Montreal for medical treatment.

An avid sailor, Derek spent many happy hours with the Britannia Yacht Club, and he also loved wilderness canoeing and camping. He had a deep appreciation for wildlife conservation, enjoyed reading, and had a lifelong love of all pets.

Derek lived with illness for a long time, but always carried on with courage and grace.

For those who wish, in memory Derek, memorial donations may be made to: Ontario Veterinary College – Pet Trust 50 Stone Road, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1

A Celebration of Derek’s life is currently being planned. Details will follow as arrangements are finalized in 2026.