It is with great sadness that Derick’s family shares the news of his passing.
Derick was born in Emo, ON and lived his early years on the family dairy farm in Barwick.
His love of farming continued throughout his life, and was able to come to partial fruition in O’Connor Township where he harvested hay on his 200-acre property. He loved working in the bush in the winter, felling countless trees that were later used for firewood, or made into lumber on his Woodmizer sawmill.
He loved building and created a landscape of buildings that included garages where he could work on his tractors, a sauna that was well used, and a variety of other sheds that housed the tools that he used on a daily basis.
Derick had a wealth of knowledge that he willingly shared with anyone that could benefit from it. Seldom did a week go by without someone calling for help with electrical, mechanical and any other kind of issue they were dealing with. He believed in helping others, and leant a hand to anyone who asked.
Before retiring in April of 2015, Derick worked for Hydro One for over 35 years. His last position with them was that of Senior Estimator. He took pride in his work and the decision to retire was a difficult one for him, however, he wanted to devote more time to his farming activities.
Derick is survived by Rita, his wife of 13 years, his wonderful children: Len (Robin), Jodie (Ed), Peggy (Brian), and stepchildren Sarah (Andrew), Nicole (Randy) and Greg (Jacquie). He shared his vast knowledge with them, and helped them with a variety of building, renovating, and repair projects at their homes or at the cabin in Dryden.
What they learned from him is part of the legacy he leaves behind. He was so proud of his grandchildren Cade, Griffin, Emma, Kiara, Jordan, Jada, Cameron, Ryan, Sandra, Zack and Kyle. They meant a lot to him and he enjoyed their visits and was proud of their accomplishments. Derick is also survived by his sister Ruth (Bob) and several nieces and nephews. All of them loved and respected Derick.
Derick is predeceased by his parents Fred and Iris, his brothers Doug and Brian, and sister Ava, and late wife Mikki. We pray that he finds his way to them and finds peace and comfort in their love.
It broke our hearts to say goodbye to this kind, caring man. All who knew him will miss his presence.
Funeral services for Derick will be held at Hilldale Lutheran Church, 321 Hilldale Road, on Saturday, February 20,2016, beginning at 2:00 p.m. presided by Rev. Nancy Ringham, with visitation one hour prior to service time. Private interment in O’Connor Cemetery will follow reception. Should friends wish to make a gift in Derick’s memory; donations can be made to the Canadian Mental Health Association, or a charity of choice.
