Passing of OWWA President Nick Reid
It is with great sadness that the OWWA announces the passing of its President and Board Chair, Nick Reid (1955-2021). Nick worked as the Executive Director of Ryerson Urban Water, and was previously an executive with the Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA).
Nick was an active volunteer with OWWA, and was a member of the Climate Change and Publications Committees. He served as Publications Committee Chair from 2009 to 2015, overseeing the production and modernization of the association’s quarterly magazine “Pipeline”. Nick also contributed his time volunteering at the AWWA level, as Chair of the Manufacturers and Associates Council (MAC) Low Economic Value of Water Subcommittee.
Nick was elected to the Board of Directors in 2015, and served as Secretary-Treasurer (2018), Vice President (2019) and presided over one of the most difficult years the association has faced in its 100 year history. Despite the challenges faced by the organization during the past year, Nick helped to launch the OWWA’s 2020-2023 Strategic Plan and several new initiatives. His passion for supporting students and newcomers to the water industry was reflected in his enthusiasm for, and contributions to, the OWWA Mentorship Program as well as our Diversity, Inclusion & Equity Task Force.
Nick leadership of the association was characterized by the kindness, generosity, compassion and thoughtfulness he showed to all those who had the pleasure of working with him. Ryerson Urban Water has published a tribute to Nick on their website.
Nick’s family have also opened a memory wall which can be viewed here.
The news of Nick’s passing has been met with grief, shock and a profound sense of loss, but also with an outpouring of kind words and fond memories. At the last OWWA Board meeting Nick was able to attend, he reminded us all to “never miss an opportunity to let someone know you appreciate them”. This sentiment is how we will remember Nick and what we hope to pass on as we honour his legacy.
On behalf of the entire OWWA membership, the Board extends their sincere condolences to Nick’s family, friends and colleagues.
