STAPLES, Eric
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Eric Staples (age 83) on Tuesday March 13, 2018 at the Ottawa Maycourt Hospice, with the unconditional love and support of his children and family. Over the years, Eric expressed his gratitude to his healthcare providers and for the healthcare system. He was an inspiration to many, facing his numerous medical challenges with courage, strength, dignity, and humor. He beat the medical odds on many occasions.
Eric is survived by his long-time partner Robina Brinson (Gander Nfld), her children Lorraine (Lloyd) and Cheyanne (Christine) and her grandchildren. In Ottawa, he is survived by his beloved children Michael, Mona, Brenda, Wanda (Rob Kyte) and his children's mother, Florence (Babineau) Staples. He is pre-deceased by his parents Kathleen (Bonenfant) and Alden Staples and his sister Shirley (John). He is the loving eldest brother of Moonyeen (the late Regis), MaryAnn (Ross), Jean (Jacques), Richard (Lorraine), Sandy (John), Beverly (Harry), Butch (Lynn), Bobby (Cindy), Kathleen (the late Lewis). He will be fondly remembered by his many nieces, nephews, extended family, and his many friends.
Eric was born April 21, 1934 in Lachine Quebec. In 1950, he graduated from St. Vincent's High School, Saint John, NB. At age 16, he attended St. FX . University where he studied in the General Engineering program (1950-1952).
He then became a cadet in 1952 at the Royal Canadian Air Force Royal Military College in Kingston and Trenton. This led to its 'true calling', a 35-year career as an Air Traffic Controller (ATC) from 1953-1989. His Air Traffic Controller is well known, he earned great respect from colleagues in the world and developed many lifelong ATC friendships.
At the onset of his career he worked in Goosebay Labrador (1957-1958 / 1962-1963) and on special assignment in Frobisher Bay, NWT (1957-1958). He also worked at the Moncton Airport (1953-1957, 1959-1962) and at the Ottawa International Airport (1966 -1988). Sault Ste. Marie, Montreal for Expo '67, and Gander ACC .
He has been appointed Chairman of the Ottawa Operations and Secretary-Treasurer of the Canadian Air Traffic Control Association (CATCA) for 17 years. He represents the union on the various official languages of the world, including representatives of Russia, Cyprus, Egypt, Costa Rica and many European countries. At the end of his career, he trained Air Traffic Controllers at the NAV Center in Cornwall, Ontario. He had a good love for Newfoundland and Robina.
Dad loved life, and by the way he taught us live to the fullest. He had a wonderful passion for people. His passion for people, along with his passion for travel and transportation (planes and trains), led him to many places where he easily formed friendships all over the world. His charming personality and smile could light up a room. He had a great sense of humor and his generosity touched many. He never ceased to be amazed with his memory for names and details, as well as his aptitude with numbers. As his children, we were injured when we were in Dad's company. We were fortunate to be in his company for a very long time. We will miss him dearly.
A funeral mass will be held at St. Patrick's Home, 2865 Riverside Drive, Ottawa on April 21 st at 1 pm Paid parking is available across the street at Mooney's Bay parking lot.
A private interment will be held on Friday, October 19th, 2018 at 2:30 pm at Capital Funeral Home and Cemetery, Ottawa.
In memory of our father, please consider a donation to Hospice Care Ottawa www.hospicecareottawa.ca or please give the gift of life and be a Blood Donor.
Dad, may you rest in eternal peace with our heavenly Father.
Loved forever and never forgotten.
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