Derek Richard Hawkins
September 20, 1984 – November 9, 2011
We would like to welcome everyone in celebrating the life of Derek Hawkins who left us on November 9, 2011 at the young age of 27. Derek was a loved son, brother, grandson, nephew and friend of many.
Derek was born in Smithers, B.C., on September 20, 1984, and was a resident of nearby Telkwa until August 1997 when the family moved to Spiritwood, Saskatchewan. They lived here until 2010 when the family relocated south to Dalmeny.
Derek’s life was fraught with challenges associated with his medical condition yet he ventured on. He had a strong desire to remain equal with his peers and liked to engage in the odd one on one razzing. Even though Derek’s physical disabilities precluded him from participating in organized sports his passion continued as a supportive fan. Derek’s favorites were the Canucks, Oilers, Leafs, Flames and the Saskatoon Blades. The Toronto Blue Jays were his only baseball team. Derek monitored the win/loss records of teams, the upcoming game schedules and any statistics which interested him. His daily schedule revolved around what times the games were on television.
His ongoing medicinal follow-up was demanding by nature yet his personal requests were few. Derek was blessed to have some very understanding and committed friends who would always lend an ear or play games with him. He enjoyed playing Wheel of Fortune or Jeopardy on the computer and liked a good game of cards or Yahtzee. He has touched those around him in ways which can never be measured nor accurately articulated. He enjoyed having visitors whom he greeted with a smile and his idolization of his siblings was unwavering.
Derek will be lovingly remembered and forever part of the lives of his parents Naomi and Al, brother Blair and sister Nicole. He will be missed by many relatives, dear friends and acquaintances whom he shared his life with.
A service was held in Saskatoon on Sunday, November 13 at the Redeemer Lutheran Church and one in Smithers at the Mountain View Assembly Church on Wednesday, November 16, with Pastor Jim Raddatz officiating. Derek was laid to rest in the Telkwa Cemetery, Telkwa, B.C.