Small, Derek
It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Derek Small. Surrounded with love and family by his side on Friday, December 22, 2017 after a courageous battle with cancer, and recovery from a stroke at age 66.
Born in Dundee Scotland on June 26, 1951. Derek was the beloved son of Christina, and the late Albert Small. Cherished husband of Roseanne, the "love of his life" for over 43 years. Loving father of Jennifer, and her husband David, and Craig and his wife Jocelyn. Proud grandfather of Jayden and Dawson. Dearly loved brother of Denise, and her husband Buzz Hargrove. Dear brother-in law of Michael and Carolyn Doherty, Molly and Wayne Martin, and the late Charlie and Donna Doherty. Derek will be sadly missed by his niece, nephews, and great niece; Christie, Adrian, and Harper Butler, Darren Hill and his partner Emily, and Christopher, Darren and Jason Doherty.
Derek and Rosie married on May 4, 1974. In 1976, they purchased their first home, and moved to Brampton, where they resided for over 30 years. In 2013, they made Wasaga Beach their permanent residence. Derek loved cruising the beach in his corvette, and hanging out on the patios sipping a cold one. In the winter they enjoyed time in Florida. Derek was an excellent hockey player, and was drafted into the NHL in his late teens. His love of sports continued into his later years, and he watched Hockey Night in Canada every Saturday. Go Leafs! He coached minor baseball and hockey in Brampton for over 10 years. In his retirement he could be found watching his grandson, Jayden goaltending. Derek began his career with Bell Canada where he worked for 28 years. He was highly respected, and made lasting friendships. Upon early retirement from Bell he embarked on a new journey with Channell Commercial as the National Sales Director. Derek retired from Channell in 2016 after 15 years of service. Derek's expertise, warm and kind personality, as well as his sense of humour have left wonderful memories for his colleagues.
Special thanks to the wonderful staff at Royal Victoria Hospital in Barrie, and Collingwood General Hospital for their care and compassion. If desired, a donation can be made to the Royal Victoria Hospital Cancer Care Center in Derek's memory.
Derek was a very kind, loving and caring man, who loved his family, and his many friends and colleagues. His memory will remain in our hearts forever.
Funeral Service will be held at Dods & McNair Funeral Home, Chapel & Reception Centre, 21 First Street, Orangeville, on Saturday, January 6, 2018 at 12:00 p.m. with visitation starting at 11:00 a.m. Reception following at Mill Creek Pub, 25 Mill St., Orangeville.
A tree will be planted in memory of Derek in the Dods & McNair Memorial Forest at the Island Lake Conservation Area, Orangeville. A dedication service will be held on Sunday, September 9, 2018 at 2:30 p.m. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.dodsandmcnair.com