Derek Earl Dettling
October 11, 1972 - January 13, 2024
In Loving Memory
Derek Earl Dettling
Derek, a man whose journey through life was marked by both triumphs and tribulations, passed away on January 13th. Despite facing numerous challenges, including periods of personal struggle, his story is one of resilience, hope, and the enduring human spirit.
Derek was born on October 11, 1972, In Fort St John, BC, to Joe and Sharon and the youngest of three children. When Derek was six the family moved to Grande Prairie, AB where he grew up surrounded by the love of his extended family and friends.
Derek worked in the energy industry for most of his life with more recent experience in the construction and concrete business after moving to the Okanagan 12 years ago. He found happiness camping in the great outdoors, with only the basics of a tent and a campfire. His love for sports, particularly hockey and golf provided him with moments of relaxation and connection. Whether cruising with the top down or on a boat in the hot summer days of the Okanagan, Derek enjoyed life.
Tragically, Derek’s life was cut short at the age of 51 after battling a terminal illness for the last 11 months.
He is survived by his mom Sharon, and siblings Todd and Tracy (Sean), along with four nieces, one nephew and a large extended family. Derek was predeceased by his father Joe, twin brothers Barry and Brian along with Grandparents Earl and Audrey Fritz and William and Alice Dettling. He will be remembered for his social lifestyle and his interest to be active. May Derek rest in peace, his spirit forever a reminder of hope and perseverance. A graveside service will be planned for the spring of 2024 in Fairview, AB.
Arrangements entrusted to
Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services 250-546-7237
Condolences may be expressed to the family by phone or email through Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services:
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Comments: 16
I was made aware of the tragic news of my old friend Derek, yesterday Kevin Hughez called me.
My earliest memories of Derek, we worked together at Boston Pizza and were quick friends. As time went on we enjoyed many laughs, crazy days and nights in gp.
Derek was always open to help, care and go where a friend needed him.
Day or night, near or far, I always knew he would join a friend in the next adventure.
It has been over 2 decades since I saw Derek but his smile and easy laugh are some of my fondest memories. A true pal .
I pray he is now with the lord and knows everlasting peace.
Brent
Well Derek here’s to your resilience, your smile was contagious, and your laugh drew others in to participate.
Man we had some great times In Our younger days from neighbors down the street in Crystal Ridge of GP and shared making memories In the same show boat n 1980 white & blue Ford truck i built.
Stay handsome smiley. Rest in Peace Brotha.
My sincere condolences to the family, Tracey and Sean keep strong and hold the smiling memories near.
I will always remember how Derek loved to play Mario on his nintendo, with his arms flapping with excitement, and how happy he was to receive his cabbage patch doll for christmas. I am very saddened to hear of his passing, my sincerest condolences to you Sharon, Todd, Tracy, and family.
Sharon and Family,
I am saddened to hear of Derek’s passing. I met him years ago at the Husky gas station when he would pop in to gas up and buy smokes……DuMaurier red regulars!!! Then as years went on I began working at Holiday Park gatehouse…. and there he was!! Forgetting a gate card again… or just to say Hi…!!!! Lol And he always had a smile!! And or a different vehicle he was driving!!! Sending my heart felt sympathy……
Mel at HPR Gatehouse
Sorry about your loss.
Deepest condolences🙏🏻❤️
Katie, Barb and Larry Dettling
To the Dettling family. D was a great human and I am happy to have had the chance to make memories with him! He could always put a smile on your face and give you a BIG hug if you needed it. Rest easy and fly free my friend! – Gina-Marie Xo
Deepest condolences to Sharon and family.
Alex & Janice Hogg
I was dereks godfather. this kid loved life and lived it to the fullest. He was always positive about life and never heard a negative attitude from him. he loved his family and friends. Derek made a few mistakes in life but we are all guilty of that. rest in peace Derek .
I am going to miss you so much Derek. You’re a good friend who made me laugh and cry. Thank-you for all the great memories. Thank-you for all your help. RIP dear Friend. Love Rachel
Sending our condolences to the family. Prayers to you all
Sorry for the loss of the family
Derek was my ex husband Brent best friend . I always loved his honesty , sense of humour, he was super feisty and direct , what u see is what u get type of guy.
I hope you are in a better place .
Rest in peace ❤️💔
Our sincere condolences to Derrick’s family. Derrick was a great friend to our family and will be missed.
My Brother, I’m sorry Derrick I miss you bro you were my best friend I’ll cherish our memories and experiences together fuck we had some fun and got into some shit together lol you left to soon bro I hate this happened to you I’m so sorry to your family… I think of you often I will tell our stories and I will never forget you until we meet again my friend… ps put in a good word for me I might need it and save me a chair at your table bro I love and miss you!!!
So sorry for your loss. Deepest condolences from the Fuller families.
I knew Derek when he was a young guy. Todd and I were great friends, and I got to know all of the Dettlings. Todd was the funny guy, always a laugh a minute. Derek… hyperactive… was like a buzz saw… always going. Loved the whole family…. seen him off and on in the years after high-school, and he was the same. Had an open air Wrangler jeep…. 0-100 everywhere he went. Excellent guy, like his whole family. My heart goes out to the family…. nothing but fond memories.
Oh Sharon – I only met Derrick once at Holiday Park. What a fine fellow. I have thought of him often and so sad he got sick. He will be up there with my son, Ken.
Our beautiful sons.