One of God’s beautiful children, Derek Scott DeBoer, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 14, 2018 at the age of 35.
Derek was born Nov. 5, 1982 in Bellingham to Art and Alisa DeBoer. He grew up in Lynden, attending Lynden Christian School through the fourth grade, then Lynden public, and finally taking classes at Whatcom Community College.
In his youth he was active and talented in so many ways. His favorite hobbies included soccer, baseball, fishing and Taekwondo. His animals and hobbies were always a priority during our local fair.
Derek worked for many local Lynden businesses, but his recent and most favorite job was working at Manor Lake Labradoodles, taking great pride in caring for the dogs. He had a passion for caregiving and being a guardian to many animals. It cannot go untold he was a lover of “All Creatures Great and Small,” a Dr. Dolittle of sorts. His soulful nature was reflected in his music, the books he read and his artistic eye for nature’s beauty. Most importantly, he made us laugh.
Derek was preceded in death by his grandparents Francis DeBoer, Jack Mooney and Norm Kayser.
Derek is survived by his mom Alisa (Keith) Kayser; father Art (LeAnn) DeBoer; brothers Jayme (Lyan) and Alex; sister Abby; grandparents Frank and Jenny DeBoer, James and Mary Ellen Root, June and Richard Mayer, Sally Kayser and Lorraine Mooney. He will be greatly missed by his numerous aunts, uncles and cousins and many special friends. Derek was blessed with more than his share of wonderful role models.
You are invited to join family and friends for visitation on Friday, March 23, from 5 to 8 p.m. in Gillies Funeral Home. A memorial service is planned for 2 p.m. Monday, April 2, in Immanuel Lutheran Church, 5782 Lawrence Rd. south of Everson, with pastors Arden Barden and Ben deRegt officiating. Burial preceded in Greenwood Cemetery.
You are invited to share your memories and condolences in the online guestbook at www.gilliesfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
