Derek Ruttan

Well! That went quickly didn’t it? My days of providing London Free Press readers with photos to decorate their fridges are over. Cancer is the biggest bully I ever faced. I’ve been standing up to bullies my whole life, win or lose my integrity always remained in tact. I’ve never kissed a butt and have great disdain for those who enjoy having their’s kissed. Shame on you. This stance may have cost me on the way up the corporate ladder but I could always keep my head held high. Cancer however is a bully I couldn’t defeat. The cards were stacked against me from the start. There was no courageous battle. It attacked me by suprise and never stopped pummelling to the end.

I Ieave behind Sarah, the only woman I’ve ever loved, and two amazing sons she gave me Darcy and Shayne. I truly hate that this is happening to you.I promise you will get through this and blossom into the fine men you are supposed to be.

I am predeceased by my father, Wayne Ruttan. He was a great man and I did my best to emulate him. I also leave behind my caring and dutiful mother, Joyce. I am sorry this had to happen to you, mom. It’s an exception cruel joke of fate that has taken both of us in the same year. My sister Julie Graham, her husband Todd and their children Evan and Jordyn (Branden), my brother Colin and his children Kyle and Megan (Stephen).

Despite a few hurdles at work (I guess everyone has them) I managed to have a pretty successful career. I was nominated six times for the National Newspaper Award (Canada’s top journalism award). Of those six, I won twice. And twice I was recognized as NPAC’s eastern Photographer of the Year. I also have boxes full of ONA trophies. To be pick out of such a large pool of talented shooters is truly humbling.

Good-bye to all my friends and love ones. You are what made my life truly with living. I Love you.

Visitors will be received on Friday, January 30th , 2026 from 5:00 and 8:00 p.m. in the O’Neil Funeral Home, 350 William St., London.

The Funeral Service will be celebrated in the O’Neil Funeral Home, 350 William St. London, on Saturday, January 31st, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. with visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Service.

A celebration of Derek's life will be held after the Service on Saturday, January 31st, 2026 from 1:00 and 3:00 p.m. at the Four Points Sheraton, 1150 Wellington Rd, London, ON.

Online condolences & Guest Book at www.oneilfuneralhome.ca