Myrtle Desiree Hincke

Myrtle Desiree (Des) Hincke (née Strachan) passed peacefully at the age of 92. She is reunited with the love of her life and high school sweetheart, Albert (Al). Happily married 64 years, they shared four children: Max (Barbara), Joe (Susan), Peter (Saica) and Sandra (Kent); nine grandchildren: Melissa (Stephane), Rachel (Alex), Alexandra (Radey), Carolyn (Kyle), Joseph (Katrine), Rebecca, Matthew (Stacey), Jonathan (Julianna), David; and 14 great-grandchildren. Des is survived by her sister Nicky Manson (Ed). 

Des worked as a registered nurse and nursing instructor, earning her B.Sc. and B.Ed. at Acadia University in 1971, while the family was stationed in Nova Scotia. Later that year, the family moved to Ottawa where Des applied to both nursing and teaching positions, deciding she would take the first job offered. Thus began her career as a special educator with the Carleton Board of Education, during which she earned her M.Ed. from – and taught part-time at – the University of Ottawa. She was instrumental in bringing the International Baccalaureate program to Colonel By High School in Ottawa, where she was Special Education Department Head until her retirement in 1996. A life-long learner, Des encouraged others to pursue the same, bringing her family together each summer to celebrate academic and career achievements. 

A consummate host, Des revelled in being surrounded by her treasured family and friends. Whether at home or the cottage, there was always a pot of coffee ready to be served, an extra chair to pull up at the dinner table and a puzzle to help finish. An accomplished seamstress, she was ready to lend a hand with mending or a sewing project. In their retirement, Des and Al enjoyed spending time at their cottage on Black Lake, travelling and cruising, and pursuing their many hobbies and interests together. 

A woman of deep Christian faith, Des lived for today, enjoying each moment with which God blessed her. She actively participated in the life and ministry of All Saints Lutheran Church for over 45 years. She served as President of the congregational council and was active in the Healing Prayer Ministry of the church. 

A Funeral Service will be held at All Saints Lutheran Church, 1061 Pinecrest Road, Ottawa, on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at 11 a.m., followed by a reception. 

In lieu of flowers, please carry on Des’ legacy by doing something kind for a friend, family member or person in need, or by making a donation to a charity of your choice.