Gordon Campbell

Campbell, Gordon Donald, PhD, P. Eng.

August 18, 1928 - July 12, 2018

Peacefully on Thursday, July 12, 2018 in Ottawa in the loving embrace of his family. Gordon Campbell is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Betty, daughters Nancy (Phil Harding), Cathy (Todd Irick) and Joni (Chris Best) and six grandchildren: Tommy Harding; Marina, Lara and Christy Irick; and Gordie and Paul Best. Gordon was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the son of Olga Marina (Arnason) and Colin Langel Campbell. He was predeceased by his brother and best friend Malcolm.

Gordon received an engineering degree from the University of Manitoba, and a Master's and PhD in highway engineering from Purdue University before embarking on a career that shaped transportation standards and programs in Canada. He began his career at the Canadian Good Roads Association (now the Transportation Association of Canada) where he initiated many of the engineering standards for highways in place today. In 1969, he served as the first Director General of Road Safety and Motor Vehicle Regulation, Transport Canada. Over the next 19 years he had a major impact on reducing injuries and saving lives in Canada by introducing safety, environmental and impaired driving regulations for motor vehicles. Among his many awards were the Engineering Medal (Professional Engineers Association of Ontario) and an Honorary Life membership from the Transportation Association of Canada. He was a member for more than 10 years of the Governor General's Bravery Awards selection committee.

Gordon was a former President and Chair of Red Pine Camp, where he spent 50 wonderful summers. He was a long-time member of the Granite Curling Club and a member of Woodroffe United Church for 60 years. A celebration of his life will be held at Woodroffe United Church, 207 Woodroffe Avenue, Ottawa, on Saturday August 18, 2018 at 11 AM. Reception to follow.

Memorial donations may be made to the University of Ottawa Heart Institute or to Red Pine Camp's memorial fund.