Richard Henderson Begg

Richard was born on August 4th, 1947, to John and Vera Begg in Kincardine, Ontario. Richard grew up in Chatham, Ontario, where he attended elementary and high school, as well as played numerous sports. Richard graduated from the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Dentistry in 1969 at the age of 21, making him (and his identical twin brother, Robin) amongst the youngest to ever graduate from this program.

Richard began his dental career in Woodstock, Ontario, and married Heather Sue Brown. Shortly after, Richard and Sue moved to Germany, where Richard worked as a civilian dentist on Canadian Forces Base Baden-Solingen. Richard’s daughter, Jennifer, was born in Germany in 1972. The family returned to Canada in 1973 and Richard started his dental practice in Ottawa, Ontario. Richard’s son, Matthew, was born in Ottawa in 1974. Richard practiced dentistry in Ottawa for 45 years before retiring in 2018.

Richard stayed active throughout his adult life, playing on local basketball teams, rowing with the Ottawa Rowing Club, and skiing in the winter. Richard was an avid cyclist and spent many weekends cycling throughout the Ottawa Valley. Richard ran or cycled to work throughout his career, and was known widely as the “man in the silver running suit,” or, as his kids liked to call him, the “Silver Bullet.”

Throughout the 1980’s and ‘90’s, Richard was active with the Canadian Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War (CPPNW), serving as the national treasurer for several years. Along with their international organization, International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War (IPPNW), the group was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1985.

Richard could be found some days, or most days, at the James Street Pub, having a pint, finishing the crossword, and being part of his community.

Richard is survived by his children, Jennifer and Matthew, as well as his three grandchildren Samuel (20), Emily (18), and Rosie (12). To his children, Richard was a provider and a guide, showing us how to navigate life through example. We love you, dad.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society, or another charity of your choice.