Obituary for Ian Edward Bennett
Peacefully, with his family by his side, on Monday, January 22, 2018, in hospital after a short illness. A well respected economist and dedicated public servant, Ian was an original thinker and a natural leader. Born June 8, 1948 in Nelson, BC, he studied economics at Simon Fraser University and again later at the University of Toronto. He joined the federal government as a junior economist and quickly rose through the ranks, eventually serving as Canada’s representative at the International Monetary Fund, G7 and G20 Deputy, Deputy Minister of Finance, and Master of the Royal Canadian Mint, a job he particularly enjoyed.
Ian possessed unique wisdom combined with common sense, a generous spirit, and a devilish sense of humour that endeared him to colleagues and friends alike. A true mentor, others turned to him intuitively for advice, and he fostered their talents with honesty, integrity, and an unassuming manner.
As much as he valued his career, he loved his family above all else, and was devoted to his wife, Mary Alice. A proud grandfather, Ian’s greatest pleasure was spending time with his six beloved grandsons who adored him. His absence from their lives will be keenly felt. Ian loved the outdoors, was a keen gardener, and also enjoyed golf, canoeing, and cottage life. He and Mary Alice were always together, whether travelling abroad, visiting family in Vancouver, or relaxing at the cottage.
He is survived by his wife Mary Alice, his children Emily (Steve), Jessie (Sammy) and Matthew (Larissa), his six grandsons: Jeremy, Ben, Jonathan, Levi, Ryan, and Zev; his brother Ron (Judy) and sister Janice (Keith). Predeceased by his parents, Olive and Ted, and brother Derek (Barb) of Vancouver. Friends are invited to visit at the Central Chapel of Hulse, Playfair & McGarry, 315 McLeod Street (at O’Connor Street), Ottawa, on Friday, January 26th from 2 p.m to 4 p.m., and on Saturday, January 27th from 11 a.m. until time of Memorial Service in Chapel at 1 p.m. and reception to follow.
The family would like to thank the staff at the Ottawa Hospital, General Campus, for their dedicated and compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, donations to Roots of Empathy, or a charity of your choice, would be appreciated.
His life, although too brief, touched us all very deeply.
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Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Ian Edward Bennett 1948 2018.source
Décès pour la Ville: Ottawa, Province: Ontario
