Des Newman, a respected former mayor of Whitby and a trailblazer in Canada’s aerospace industry, has passed away at the age of 94. Known as a dedicated community leader and an innovator in aviation and space technology, Newman leaves behind a legacy deeply rooted in public service and scientific advancement.
Elected as Whitby’s youngest mayor in 1966 at just 35, Newman served for a decade, during which he championed major developments that helped shape the modern town. His leadership saw the amalgamation of the town and township of Whitby, the establishment of the Regional Municipality of Durham, and the creation of lasting infrastructure like the Iroquois Park Sports Centre and J.O. Ruddy General Hospital, now known as Lakeridge Health Whitby. He was also instrumental in founding Whitby Arts Inc., now Station Gallery.
Born in British Guiana in 1931, Newman immigrated to Canada in 1955 and quickly became a force in both civic life and industry. In 1956, he joined Cametoid Ltd. in Ajax as a chemist. Just over a decade later, he bought the company and led it to national and international prominence. Cametoid played a critical role in Canadian aerospace history, contributing to the Avro Arrow project, plating the antennae of Canada’s first satellite, Alouette, and providing coatings for the Canadarm and several ANIK satellites.
Newman’s influence extended far beyond Whitby. He founded the Durham Region Manufacturers Association, chaired Dennis O’Connor Catholic High School, and served as president of the local Rotary Club. He also chaired the Department of Defence Supply Chain Management Committee for seven years, and the prestigious Dr. Desmond G. Newman Supply Chain Management Award was established in his name.
In recognition of his service and achievements, Newman received numerous honours including the Freedom of the Town of Whitby, the Whitby Chamber of Commerce Peter Perry Award, Canada’s Centennial Medal, and the Queen’s Golden and Diamond Jubilee Medals. He was also awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from the University of Ontario Institute of Technology in 2015.
Tributes from across the region describe Newman as a kind, visionary leader who was always available to support residents, entrepreneurs, and even young reporters seeking insights into aerospace science. “Whitby has lost a respected leader, but Newman’s legacy lives on in the community he helped build,” said Mayor Elizabeth Roy.
Flags at Whitby Town Hall have been lowered to half-mast in his honour, and a memorial book has been placed in the Town Hall lobby for residents wishing to offer their condolences.