Derek passed away peacefully with family by his side on Saturday, March 11, 2017, at the age of 88.
Predeceased by wife Donalda; Derek is survived by his brother Ivan; son Kevin; daughters Karen and Wendy (Todd); special extended family Val John and Angela (Shawn) Zimmerman; and grandchildren Spencer, Derek, Mitchell, Zackery, and Ethan.
Born in England, Derek moved to Port Alberni with his wife and children in 1967 as a police officer with the RCMP Marine Division. He later went on to work with the Coast Guard. He joined the Harbour Commission in 1973 and worked as the Harbour Master from 1975 until his retirement in 1990. After his retirement, he volunteered at the senior homes in Port Alberni, showing slides from his travels and journeys around the world. He will be deeply missed.
The family would like to thank the staff and volunteers at Ty Watson House and Rainbow Gardens for the wonderful care they provided to Derek. They would also like to thank the special people who continued to visit Derek and brought him great joy and entertainment.
Following Derek’s wishes, no service will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Derek’s memory to the Ty Watson House, 2649 2nd Avenue, Port Alberni, B.C., V9Y 1Z8, or to Rainbow Gardens, 6151 Russell Place, Port Alberni, B.C., V9Y 7W3. Memories and condolences can be shared with the family at www.chapelofmemories.ca