Research scientist dies at 82

Derek Schofield

A FORMER Oldhamer who became Canada’s top defence scientist has died in hospital in Ottowa. He was 82.

Derek Schofield is survived by Penelope, his wife of 54 years, children Jennifer, Jonathan and Michael and five grandchildren.

Mr Schofield was only nine when his father died, meaning the youngster had to work extra hard to gain scholarships to pursue his academic dreams.

The former Oldham High School pupil received a BSc and PhD in Physics from Sheffield University and started his career at HM Underwater Detection Establishment in 1952. Three years later, Mr Schofield moved to Canada to continue his work as a research scientist. He spent a year at the National Defence College before being appointed scientific adviser to the vice-chief of the defence staff.

In 1977, he became deputy chief of research and development, responsible for technical programmes, and carried out a great number of projects.

In 1983, Mr Schofield took on the role of chief of research and development for the Department of National Defence and remained as Canada’s top defence scientist until he retired in 1992. In 1985, he sent and received Canada’s first e-mail after the country got Internet access on April 3. He went on to teach colleagues how to use the Internet and oversaw its introduction into Canada.

After he stopped work, Mr Schofield served on several national and international committees including the NATO Advisory Group for Aerospace Research and Development.

In the last 20 years of his life, he struggled with Parkinson’s Disease but managed to live his life to the full and treasured family holidays.