Passed away peacefully on Friday, May 11, 2018, at Hospice Wellington.
Derek was predeceased by his wife Vera (nee Sheehy) in 2002.
He will be remembered with great love by his children David (Kristen), Julie (John) and Michael (Dalma) and grandchildren Aidan, Sayde, Szofi and Izabel.
Derek had a gentle, cheerful nature and faced his many, often painful, health problems with optimism and courage.
All the pain and grief is over,
Every restless tossing passed;
I am now at peace forever,
Safely home in Heaven at last.
Derek enjoyed family time, travel, Sauble Beach and Port Elgin, dancing and music, golf, ribs, chocolate, bridge and reading.
A heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff and volunteers at Hospice Wellington. And much appreciation to Dr. Robert Stevens, Dr. Brian Trainor and the doctors and nurses at the Guelph General Hospital who cared for Derek.
Cremation has taken place, to be followed by a private family service. Donations to Hospice Wellington and Grand River Regional Cancer Centre would be greatly appreciated by the family.