It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ian Ralph Gaukrodger Derby on Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023. On the evening of Sept. 16, Ian suffered a catastrophic brain bleed that led to a massive stroke. He underwent emergency surgery at the Toronto Western Hospital where he was then in the excellent care of the neurosurgical ICU team for ten days. Honouring Ian’s previously expressed wishes, the family made the difficult choice to withdraw life support after which Ian passed quickly and peacefully with family and close friends by his side. Ian will be deeply missed by his wife Sue - his love of 35 years – stepson Craig and partner Nikki. He leaves behind some very strong, long-lasting friendships.
Ian was born in Ottawa, Ont. on Jan. 23, 1949 and when he was three moved with his parents – Ralph (deceased 2008) and Gwen (Gaukrodger – deceased 2017) to Sault Ste Marie, Ont. when his father took the post of director of education for the Algoma District. He was an only child who grew up in a neighbourhood typical of the 1950s where kids played and wandered and families watched for each other. He was always proud to have shared that space with some Canadian notables, including Governor General David Johnston.
Ian displayed a keen interest and talent for playing the piano from a very early age. His mother taught him piano until he was proficient enough to have a “real teacher”. He excelled in piano performance and obtained his A.R.C.T. from the Royal Conservatory of Music when he was 16. After graduating from Sault Collegiate with several scholarships, Ian attended McGill University School of Medicine and subsequently was certified to practice internal medicine and neurology in Ontario. He opened his private practice in Hamilton in 1979 and served on staff at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton, also making time to teach McMaster University Medical students. Ian made the difficult decision to retire in 2020 due to health challenges.
Anyone who knew Ian learned that he applied himself wholeheartedly to whatever he pursued - whether sailing with a winning boat and crew on Lake Ontario, photography, playing bridge or chess, piano playing, skiing in Ellicottville and later on golfing. His passion for music, reading and learning was insatiable to the end.
The family deeply appreciates the extraordinary care and integrity shown by the medical staff at Toronto Western and the outpouring of spiritual, emotional and physical support from friends and family during this unexpected, challenging time.
For those who wish, donations in Ian’s memory can be made to The Salvation Army or a charity of your choice.