We Have Lost a True Water Hero!
Former CWWA Executive Director Duncan Ellison passes
It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Thomas Duncan Ellison, better known as “The Duncan”, at the age of 87. While still very active in the water sector until a few short months ago, Duncan succumbed to a rapid onset of cancer. Duncan left this world, surrounded by loved ones, on Wednesday, November 4th…ironically the day we wrapped up the CWWA National Water & Wastewater Conference – an association, an event and the people very near to Duncan’s heart.
Duncan Ellison was a most-fascinating individual who dedicated his life to public service through his work for public safety, the environment and international standards. After moving from the UK to Canada as a young man, he completed a full career in health policy with the federal government, including studying in New Zealand and working in Mexico. After retiring from his first career, he took on the leadership of the Canadian Water and Wastewater Association (our CWWA) in 1992, serving as executive director for almost 20 years – leaving in 2012. But Duncan stayed connected as a mentor and an invaluable resource to the new executive director and all the staff.
This second retirement just freed him to now dedicate his time to public health and international standards. Duncan worked closely with public health associations and led a number of International Standards Association (ISO) working groups – most specifically on water reuse. Duncan’s ISO leadership on flushable wipes led to the formation of the International Water Services Flushability Group (IWSFG) and paved the road toward the development of a Canadian standard for flushability (due in 2028). Duncan’s impact on our industry and contributions to the country will be felt for many, many years.
Naturally, Duncan received the Golden Toque pin from CWWA, but was also inducted to the AWWA Water Hall of Fame for his contributions to the industry. The Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors (CIPHI) and the Environmental Health Foundation of Canada (EHFC) honour him with the annual T. Duncan Ellison Safe Water Award that recognizes outstanding contributions to the promotion of safe drinking water, wastewater management, source water protection, and beach water monitoring.
Duncan will be sadly missed by all of us at CWWA.
A Remembrance gathering for Duncan will take place on Sunday, November 15, 2026, from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm at the Mundell Funeral Home, 79 West Street North, Orillia. A Celebration of Life will also be held in Ottawa in the Spring. We will share notice of this Celebration event when we get the details.
Please see these two attachments that tell more of the rich story of his life:
Duncan’s Obituary:
Thomas Duncan Ellison Obituary November 4, 2026 – Mundell Funeral Home
An ISO article about Duncan, written by Duncan, with a great photo: