Obituaries

It’s with great sadness that I have heard of the passing of Derek, and thought I would share a few thoughts and memories. I had the pleasure of meeting Derek in 2009 when my wife and I moved to Sooke. From then on, Derek became a good friend with whom I enjoyed many coffees and shared stories of our Naval Service. In 2015, as I assumed Command of HMCS Ottawa, a frigate stationed in Esquimalt, I knew that I wanted to share my tour with Derek and appointed him as Honourary Captain. Keen for new duties, Derek attended multiple events both onboard and ashore, including promotions, celebrations, change of command ceremonies, and our sailors Christmas dinner (a long held naval tradition). Although I have many great memories of our time together, by far, my fondest and most cherished memories are of our shared time in Command of Ottawa and more specifically, the day I was able to take Derek to sea. Sitting in the Captain’s chair as we sailed out of Esquimalt Harbour, with sailors making their reports to him, Derek had the biggest of smiles. He reminded me that he hadn’t been to sea in over 70 years, since returning from the war. He was loved by many including the sailors in HMCS Ottawa, who took great pride in their Honorary Captain Derek, who happily shared tales of his service and experiences. He will be greatly missed. To Derek’s family, my most sincere condolences to you. You remain in my thoughts and prayers. Crossing the Bar BY ALFRED, LORD TENNYSON Sunset and evening star, And one clear call for me! And may there be no moaning of the bar, When I put out to sea, But such a tide as moving seems asleep, Too full for sound and foam, When that which drew from out the boundless deep Turns again home. Twilight and evening bell, And after that the dark! And may there be no sadness of farewell, When I embark; For tho' from out our bourne of Time and Place The flood may bear me far, I hope to see my Pilot face to face When I have crost the bar. Fair winds and following seas Derek. Respectfully, Captain(Navy) Sylvain Belair