Derry Oke

Derry Goodland Oke, P.Eng., CD, Commander (Retired)

Derry Oke passed away peacefully at the age of 84. Beloved and devoted husband to Susan for 56 years, Derry was a loving father to Carrie (André Maragh), Wesley (Amy), and his late daughter Deborah (Christopher Brown). He was a cherished grandfather to Jacob, Thomas, MJ, Avery, Myra, and Kaylee, who brought him immense pride and joy. Derry is survived by his sister, Doreen, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers David, Donald, and Douglas.

Born in Calgary, Alberta, Derry's childhood included many adventures throughout Alberta and British Columbia, including living in Regina Lake, Red Deer, Lake Louise, Sylvain Lake, Canmore, and Chilliwack. After high school he drove 7,000 miles across the United States with his friend Murray in his Volkswagen bug, spending $200 on gas.

Derry pursued a life of service and learning, graduating in 1964 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Royal Roads Military College and the Royal Military College of Canada. He later earned a Master’s degree in Naval Architecture at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Derry served a distinguished career in the Canadian Armed Forces (Navy), retiring at the rank of Commander. His work and service took him across Canada and to Bath, England, before joining the civil service.

After settling in Ottawa in the 1980s, Derry built the family cottage in Calabogie with the help of family and friends. Many happy hours were spent at the cottage swimming, boating, and playing games.

Outside of his professional life, Derry was an avid rugby, squash, and soccer player and remained passionate about sports throughout his life. He volunteered his time coaching youth soccer, t-ball, and softball. In retirement, he enjoyed many hours playing golf with annual trips to Myrtle Beach, and at the bridge table, becoming an ACBL Life Master.

Derry will be remembered as a humble, kind, and quiet man. Analytical by nature and competitive in spirit, he approached both work and play with focus and determination. Above all, Derry was a true gentleman; his integrity, generosity, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be held at the Garden Chapel of Tubman Funeral Homes, 3440 Richmond Road, Nepean on Friday, March 13, 2026 from 3:00 - 7:00 p.m. A memorial service will be held at Bells Corners United Church, 3955 Old Richmond Road, Ottawa on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations to the charity of your choice or to the Twin Elm Rugby Park Renewal Foundation would be appreciated.