Dr. Richard Streater

Dr. Richard William Streater

Richard (Rick) Streater passed away peacefully on Friday, April 10, 2020 at the Ottawa General Hospital, at the age of 71. Richard will be greatly missed by his loving wife Ursula, sisters Kathryn (Barry), Kelly (Peter), sister-in-law Gig (Dale) nephews, James (Darlene), Jeffrey (Michelle) and Bryan, and many friends.

Richard was born in Bournemouth, UK, to Eileen Ellen (Tinton) and Geoffrey William Streater, but grew up and studied (and played the accordion) in Winnipeg MB, after the family emigrated to Canada in 1953. Richard was a star pupil, receiving the Governor Generals Medal in 1966, making the Dean's Honour list for 3 yrs and receiving his B.Sc (Hons) in Chemistry in 1970. He married his high-school sweetheart in 1970 and they made their way down to Berkeley CA, where he continued his studies and received his PhD in Chemistry in 1976.

After a 2yr NRC Postdoctoral thesis at UBC, the couple moved to Ottawa in 1978 where Richard joined  BNR as a member of scientific staff and led the development of liquid crystal displays for "advanced phone sets"- adding an LCD display to a touchtone phone was a first step forwards towards the smart phones we have today. His drive, dedication and talent resulted in several patents, publications and international recognition during this early stage of technology development. When BNR became part of Nortel, Richard played a key role in the material and device analysis, supporting the development and manufacturing of electronic and optoelectronic devices until his retirement in 2003. He was respected by his many colleagues and friends, including Heinz, Blair, Frank and Grantley (deceased) who he enjoyed the "Barley Mow " lunch meetings with.

Richard and Ursula loved to bike, hike, go to concerts, enjoy fine dining and travel to warmer climates, their favourites being St Lucia, Hawaii, Barbados and Mexico.  Richard was passionate about reading, music, sports shows, the stock market and Sodoku Puzzles.

Although he had many medical issues over the last few years, he was never one to complain (although he complained caustically about a lot of other things!). He was known for his keen intellect, curiosity and quick wit. He will be greatly missed.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date, details will be posted at www.tubmanfuneralhomes.com

In lieu of flowers, donations to www.pancreaticcancercanada.ca  or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.