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Derek Crossen - 1932-2013

Old Sedberghians of all decades in Sedbergh's history will be saddened to hear of the death of Derek Crossen.

The following obituary appeared in the Montreal Gazette, today, April 25th, 2013:

Derek "passed away at the Montreal General Hospital on Friday, March 22, 2013. Dearly beloved husband of Joan, much loved father of Cynthia Hutchison, Diana Lessard, Willa Roper and Pamela Crossen-Milz. Admired father-in-law of Marc Lessard, Gordon Roper, the late Keith Hutchison and the late Barry Milz. Dearest "Deke" to his cherished grandchildren Fiana, Alexander and Graham Hutchison, Patrick and Andrea Lessard, and Nancy, Claire and Sarah Roper. Warmly loved by his sister Jill Crossen-Sargent. Brother-in-law to Alan and Sally Webster, Peter and Nevenka Webster, and Nancy and John McFadyen and uncle to many nieces and nephews. Derek's happiest times were spent with his family and many friends. His work ethic, generosity, and sense of humour, along with his ability to listen and his willingness to look for the good in each person, made him a beacon for all to look up to and follow.

Memorial Service will be held at St. Mathias Church, Westmount, on Wednesday, March 27 at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Julius Richardson Foundation, 5425 Bessborough Avenue, Montreal, Qc, H4V2S7 (514-484-7878) would be greatly appreciated."

Derek was such an important advocate for Sedbergh over all the years of its existence. He was responsible for the original garage/workshop and later for the Environmental Centre by Beaver Pond. His care and leadership were evidenced in the Sedbergh Foundation and in his never-ending interest in whatever went on at the school. He was a voice of calm and reflection whenever crises arose. Derek made a point of getting to know the students and the staff,of visiting the Valley whenever he could, and of participating in so many of the Old Sedberghian events. He was a friend and a mentor, representing all the best that Sedbergh stood for.

We shall miss him dearly.