Derek BLACKBURN

Derek BLACKBURN obituary, GATINEAU, ON

Derek BLACKBURN

Derek BLACKBURN Obituary

Published by Ottawa Citizen on Oct. 18, 2017.
BLACKBURN, Derek Nigel 1934 - 2017 Passed away in Gatineau, Quebec, on October 12, 2017 at age 83 after a lengthy illness. Born in Sault Ste Marie, son of John and Mabel Blackburn, he was raised in Stratford. After graduation from the University of Western Ontario, he taught high school in Paris, Ontario, before entering politics. Derek was the NDP MP for Brant, serving his constituents with dedication and compassion for 22 years. After leaving politics, he served as a judge on the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada. Derek and his wife, Monique, who predeceased him in 2016, lived in Gatineau and often met with friends and former colleagues to discuss politics and current affairs. Derek was an avid reader, passionate conversationalist, talented painter, and animal lover. He is survived by his brother Richard (Barbara) and his sister Joan Bradshaw, his nieces Robin Blackburn McBride (Hugh), Carole Rowe (Todd), Lisa Bradshaw, his nephew Edward (Eunae) and their families. Special thanks must be given to Robin and Hugh and Monique's cousins Johanne, Robert, and André Trépanier for their loving care of Derek since the death of his beloved wife. Cremation has taken place, and Derek's ashes will be interred in the family plot in Avondale Cemetery, Stratford, at a later date. For those who wish to do so, donations to the Outaouais SPCA via the internet site at http://www.spca-outaouais.org/ would be appreciated. Messages of sympathy to: [email protected]

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August 19, 2018

Lloyd Robertson posted to the memorial.

October 31, 2017

Bill Knight posted to the memorial.

October 20, 2017

Robert Fox posted to the memorial.

10 Entries

Lloyd Robertson

August 19, 2018

Nancy and I are shocked to learn so late that our dear friend, Derek and my ardent school chum, passed away. I had been searching him out for some months and couldn't make contact ... sadly now I know why. Sincere condolences to all. Lloyd Robertson

Bill Knight

October 31, 2017

Derek and I sat in Parliament together. It was early days , LEWIS was leader and ended up in minority. He was the best of mp s . Constituents who contacted his office received a personal return call. It was genuine! He worked hard as Defense critic doing his job. A real coo hand Luke!

Robert Fox

October 20, 2017

On behalf of New Democrats from coast to coast to coast, we share our solace and solidarity with Derek's family, friends and former constituents. Whether it was in the Commons or at the doorstep, Derek was the friend, ally and advocate that any Canadian would wish for. His service to his constituents, his country and our Party is a source of great pride. May he rest in peace.

Robert Fox
National Director
Canada's NDP

Phil Gillies

October 18, 2017

Rest in peace Derek . Thank you for your friendship, good humour and generosity. You touched so many lives and will be missed.

Kathy Wilson

October 18, 2017

Mr. Blackburn I was a child and young adult while campaigning for this man. He was a true blue man who I respected immensely. Was the only NDP person I believed in.

Thank you for teaching me about Politics at a young age, and thank you for serving Brantford for 22 years. Your legacy is hard to touch!

RIP Mr. Blackburn

Kerry J Newstead

October 18, 2017

You are a good friend and great politician. You will be missed by the people you served.

Huguette Robillard

October 18, 2017

Dearest Derek, you now continue this journey with your beloved Monique by your side. You were both such good and special friends to me and you will both continue to live in my heart forever. You will always be remembered for your kindness and gentle manner and your love of animals. Rest well my dear friend.

Julie Marie Berry

October 18, 2017

Derek Rest In Peace you are a true Legacy

David Neumann

October 18, 2017

Thank you for your years of service to our community as MP for Brant. Condolences to those who were close to you.

Rob McBride

October 18, 2017

My wife and I only got to know Derek in the past five years but we grew to admire his charm, conversation and openness to new friendships. You are missed Derek.

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Sign Derek BLACKBURN's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

August 19, 2018

Lloyd Robertson posted to the memorial.

October 31, 2017

Bill Knight posted to the memorial.

October 20, 2017

Robert Fox posted to the memorial.