October 29, 1959 - November 26, 2007
Salmon Arm, B.C.
Derek past away at Shuswap Lake General Hospital in the early hours of November 26, 2007 at the age of 48 years after losing his 4th round with cancer.
Derek was born and raised in Salmon Arm and after a brief time in University decided to take over, along with his brother, his parent’s fruit business. His life was spent in the orchard and fruit stand with the orchard being his greatest passion.
In 1987 Derek found the love of his life Donna Dimion. They married and together farmed and worked side by side.
Derek loved to be close to nature and loved the peace and tranquil moments fishing, snowshoeing and camping.
He was very much a family man and enjoyed every family occasion, whether it be playing pond hockey, badminton, birthdays, or just sitting around reminiscing, he was always receptive to be included.
Derek was very much his mothers care giver and made sure she had breakfast every morning, you could often find the two of them visiting with the odd glass of wine; he was a wonderful and caring son.
Derek was also very proud of his nephews and had a big part in nurturing them into the family business. They were always discussing what way things should be done. He enjoyed their company.
Derek will be sadly missed by his wife of 20 years Donna Ruth, mother Lilian Ruth, brother Robin (Joyce) Ruth, nephews Dale (Jennifer) and Greg (Nicole), great nephew Landon and great niece Ella, all of Salmon Arm. He was predeceased by his brother Gerald, father Donald, grandparents Percy and Lyla Ruth and May Leach, father – in – law Pete and nephew Scotty Ruth.
The family wishes to thank Dr Adele Preto for her support and effort to make things as comfortable for the family as possible and to the Shuswap Home Support Service.
A celebration of life service and reception was held at the Gathering Place on Saturday, December 1, 2007 at 3:00 pm with Pastor Norm Russell officiating. Memorial donations may be made in Derek’s honour to the CT Scan Campaign, Shuswap Hospital Foundation, Box 265, Salmon Arm, BC, V1E 4N3.
Arrangements entrusted to FISCHER’S FUNERAL SERVICES & CREMATORIUM LTD., Salmon Arm, (250) 833-1129, fischers@sunwave.net.