Derrick Lonsdale's Obituary
Dr. Derrick Lonsdale, a venerable pioneer of Preventative Medicine and a cherished pediatric doctor at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2024, in Cleveland, Ohio, at the age of 100. Born on April 22, 1924, in England, to Edward and Kate Lonsdale.
Derrick’s life was one marked by devotion—to his family, his patients, and his community. He was a loving husband to his wife, Adele Lonsdale, for 61 years until her passing in March of 2012. Together, they raised a family that included their children David (Janice) Lonsdale, Michael (Kim) Lonsdale, the late Susan (George) Foley, and Sally (late John) McCartney. His legacy extended to his grandchildren Megan (Ryan) McGrath, Amy (Zach) Wilson, Jane Lonsdale, the late Mary Lonsdale, Sara (Adam) Hock, Elizabeth (Derek) Faasse, Katie Foley, Ryan McCartney, and Matthew (Ellie) McCartney, as well as his great-grandchildren Charlie, Ellen, Simon, Logan, Rowan, Beckett, Callum, and Rhys, who brought him immeasurable joy.
He was the last surviving sibling of his family, predeceased by his brother Teddy (Shelia) Lonsdale and sister Elsie Lonsdale. Derrick's passion for medicine was not just a career but a calling. He retired in 2012 at the age of 89 after a long and illustrious career. His work was not only his vocation but also his avocation, as he tirelessly sought to improve the lives of the children he treated and to advance the field of Preventative Medicine.
Derrick's interests were as varied as they were enriching. He was an avid sailor, finding solace and adventure on the open waters. His love for snow skiing and hiking spoke to his appreciation for nature and his pursuit of challenge and vitality. Traveling was another passion, as he explored the world and its diverse cultures, always with a sense of wonder and curiosity. His later years were spent surrounded by a community of friends at his assisted and independent living communities, where he continued to engage in lively discussions, share stories of his many experiences, and offer wisdom gleaned from a century of living.
VISITATION will be held on THURSDAY, May 9th from 3pm – 7pm at JARDINE FUNERAL HOME, 15822 Pearl Road, Strongsville. A FUNERAL SERVICE will be held on FRIDAY, May 10th, at 10am, at Strongsville United Church of Christ, 13740 Pearl Road, Strongsville. Interment will take place at Strongsville Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Glioblastoma Foundation at www.glioblastomafoundation.org in honor of his daughter, Susan Margaret Foley.
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