DERRICK HUGH JAMIESON COOMBS

(November 30, 1937 – August 19, 2025) It is with great sadness and love that the family of Derrick Coombs announces his peaceful passing at home in Oakville, after a life well lived. Derrick was born in New Delhi, British India, the only son of Dr. Stanley and Isobel Coombs. He was recently predeceased by his loving wife, Colleen, with whom he shared 63 amazing years. He is survived by his closest family: Clive, Nancy, Julie, Richard, Jane, and Peter. He was a great Dad and perfect Grandpa. Derrick had a remarkably rich and healthy life that spanned three continents. His family moved to South Africa in 1948, where he completed his education at the University of the Witwatersrand, graduating at the age of 20. After a short career as a chartered accountant, he joined South Africa's leading mining finance house, where he flourished. In his mid-career, Colleen felt the winds of change approaching South Africa and convinced Derrick that it was time to give up everything they'd built and move to Canada so that their children could grow up in safety. He handled this career move very successfully, first as a banker then later as a passionate investor. Derrick was an ardent sports enthusiast, both as a participant and as a spectator. A noted marksman in his youth and a runner before it was cool, he then played a lifetime of tennis and golf, renowned for his huge serve and long drives well into his 80s! A longtime member of Bryanston Country Club in Johannesburg, Mississaugua Golf and Country Club, and the Ontario Racquet Club, where he enjoyed lifetime friendships. He was fortunate to have played many of the world's great courses from Ireland to Australia. A keen follower of the Springboks and the SA cricket team, he attended many World Cups and Test matches. Derrick and Colleen were enthusiastic travellers, taking their children on numerous European adventures starting in the days when gentlemen wore ties on airplanes! In addition, with Colleen's gracious entertainment skills, they hosted countless parties over the decades together. A family man in every sense, Derrick was also a consummate gentleman in business, sports, and with his friends. Understated in every way, but with strong views on any topic, he was up to date on politics and culture right to the end. We are all really going to miss him, and while we are heartbroken at the loss of both our parents in such a short time, we are eternally thankful for our amazing mother and father, comforted in the knowledge that they are reunited in eternity. A private family graveside funeral will take place as per his wishes. The family would appreciate any donations to be given to Joseph Brant Hospital in Burlington.