Ottawa ON, April 29, 2025 -- Heritage Ottawa mourns the loss of our former President and outstanding volunteer, David Flemming, who died peacefully on April 25, 2025 at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute while surrounded by family. He was 79.

David has been the voice for heritage in Ottawa for many decades. He was a deeply committed and respected leader in the heritage conservation field who played a significant role in shaping the heritage landscape of the city. His influence will be felt for years to come.

Born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, David spent his career as a museum and heritage professional, first with National Historic Sites and Parks Canada before serving as the director of the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic in Halifax and later at the Cumberland Heritage Village Museum in Ottawa.

David was actively involved in Heritage Ottawa for close to 25 years, as president (2003-2012), as a committed board member, and as chair of the busy Advocacy Committee, only retiring from his duties in February. As a trusted, knowledgeable and reliable spokesperson for Heritage Ottawa, David conducted countless media interviews about the importance of preserving historic places and adapting them to new uses. Whether in writing, over the phone, on air in radio and television studios, or on the street in front of threatened heritage sites, he helped raise awareness about heritage places that matter to our communities.

In 2025 he received the Louise & Eric Moore Award for Outstanding Volunteerism for his contributions to Heritage Ottawa and for raising awareness about the value of heritage conservation. He was also the recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for his dedication to the marine history of the Atlantic and his advocacy at promoting the heritage of the city of Ottawa.

David's dedication to Heritage Ottawa strengthened our organization and we will miss his wise council and thoughtful activism. Although tenacious in his commitments, he was always calm, articulate and respectful, inspiring consensus in resolving issues and guiding others. David Flemming was admired by all who were privileged to know and work with him.

We are honoured to share a video recording of Mayor Mark Sutcliffe's heartfelt tribute to David. CLICK HERE. 

We extend our condolences to David’s family and friends. We are deeply honoured that his family asked if Heritage Ottawa would accept donations in David’s memory. If you would like to make such a donation, please visit www.heritageottawa.org/make-donation.