Derek Shaw Obituary In Loving Memory Of
Dr. Derek Humphrey Shaw
1937-2025.
It is with immense sorrow that we announce the passing of our cherished husband, father, grandfather, and brother. Derek passed away unexpectedly, yet peacefully, on April 8, 2025, in Qualicum Beach, British Columbia. Born on April 27, 1937, in Maidstone, England, Derek's journey was one marked by dedication to career and a passion for travel.
Derek will be deeply missed by Lilian, his beloved wife of 64 years. Married on October 8, 1960, in Cape Town, South Africa, together they built a life rich in love and shared interests. He was a devoted father to his son Duncan (Margaret), St. John's NL, his daughter Sandra (Rocco) Ottawa, ON, and a loving grandfather to Daniel, Maria, and Matthew. Derek also leaves behind his sister Christine Tarr of Howick, South Africa. His brother Kenneth preceded him in death in December 2024, as did his sister Margaret in 2014.
Dr. Shaw's academic achievements were significant, having earned a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Cape Town. His illustrious career spanned over 30 years as a research scientist with Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Starting at the National Research Council in Ottawa, he then dedicated over 25 years at the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Centre in St. John's NL. Derek co-authored numerous scientific research publications, contributing significantly to the field of chemistry and oceanography. His expertise was recognized internationally, leading to his role as a visiting scientist at the Max Planck Institute in Freiburg, Germany. Nationally, his contributions to the field were recognized as he was welcomed as a fellow of the Chemical Institute of Canada. Since retiring in 1997, Derek and Lilian have enjoyed a fulfilling life in Qualicum Beach.
Derek's intellectual pursuits were paralleled by his diverse interests and hobbies. He had an immense love for travel, particularly to Europe, and in his later years, he developed a fondness for Maui, Hawaii. Classical music and opera were sources of great pleasure, and he and Lilian attended performances as often as possible. Together, they also shared the joy of singing with the Oceanside Concert Choir for many years.
A man with many hobbies, Derek enjoyed making model airplanes, working on jigsaw puzzles, tending to his beautiful garden, and taking walks through the countryside and along the coast. His enthusiasm for sports was evident in his dedication to watching Formula One races, soccer, and cricket, and the excitement and joy they brought into his home.
A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, April 25 at 1pm at St. Stephen's United Church, Qualicum Beach.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Derek's memory to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Pacific Opera in Victoria https://pacificopera.ca/support/donate/
Services
Memorial Service
Friday
April 25, 2025
1:00 PM
St. Stephen's United Church
150 Village Way
Qualicum Beach, British Columbia V9K 1L1