Derek Philbert Obituary

Derek Ross Philbert
Aug. 8, 1987 ~ Feb 6, 2012
Resident of Danville
Derek Ross Philbert passed away unexpectedly on Monday, leaving behind his bold spirit, original music, and many joyful memories. Though Derek's life ended early, his accomplishments speak for his path.
Derek graduated from San Ramon Valley High, was active in SRVUMC Youth Group, got his bachelor's degree cum laude in business from Cal State Sacramento in 2010, and recently graduated from Emergency Medical Training, becoming a paramedic intern. He enjoyed photography, archery, traveling, fishing, music, hunting, and snowboarding. He was a musician, who composed beautiful songs, while playing saxophone, guitar, piano, and drums.
Derek is survived by his loving parents, Tom and Julia; brother Luke; grandparents Richard and Nancy Philbert, Peter and Gondica Strykers; and girlfriend Kendall. He is also survived by many uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends. Derek's infectious smile and sense of adventure was undeniable. Friends called him by a variety of nicknames because of his hilarious and random moments of personality. He lit up the room everywhere he went and his profound sense of joy will forever live on in the hearts of everyone whose life he's touched.
Friends and family are invited to a memorial service on Sunday, February 12th, at 2:00 pm, with a reception following at San Ramon Valley United Methodist Church with a reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to San Ramon Valley United Methodist Church and/or Axis Community Health in Livermore.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Contra Costa Times on Feb. 9, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Derek Philbert

8 Entries

Matthew Peterson

August 23, 2022

Dear Philberts,
It´s amazing to think we lost Derek ten years ago. I was thinking of Derek today and his incredible music talent on saxophone and other instruments. He was amazing to watch do a solo.

I can only imagine as a parent and brother the experience of your loss. I´m grateful I could know him. I have great faith and hope we will be able to see him again. That will be a joyous reunion.
Sending my thoughts & prayers,
Matthew Peterson

What fun they had as kids.

Kathy Vincent

February 10, 2012

Your family is my family. Your children are my children. Your boys are my boys brothers. I can't begin to know what you think of when the world is quiet. My heart aches for you all. Derek will be in our hearts forever. We love you all and pray for moments of grand memories and laughter of your wonderful son. We love you Derek and we will miss you more than you will ever know.

Shirin Bridges

February 10, 2012

Dear Philberts and Strykers, I am so sorry. Although I never knew his joy, I am truly saddened by his loss, and my thoughts and good wishes are with you. Shirin

jacqueline santiago

February 10, 2012

Dear Philbert Family and all who loved Derek,
Words can not express how sorry I am to hear of your loss. I can tell by all I have read and been told about Derek that he was a very special person. I am sorry I did not get the pleasure of meeting him. But I am grateful for the times that my niece got to spend with her cousin. And for the wonderful memories she will always carry in her heart.
Rest in peace Derek.

Jacqueline Santiago- Lopez

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February 9, 2012

Dear Philbert family,
My heart aches for you. I can't begin to know what you are going through. Just know you are in my prayers and that you are not alone. My sincerest condolences.
Peggy and Joe Damele and family

Kenny Bobek

February 9, 2012

Derek and I were friends in middle school and high school and even though we were not as good friends in high school he always would treat you like you were his best friend. There are not too many people with his kindness and joy of living. He will be missed.

Frank Santiago

February 9, 2012

Derek, you are forever in my heart & prayers. Thank you for being such a great, sweet, caring, funny & attentive cousin to all of your cousins, including my Sara.

Your memory, spirit & presence will live on forever in many hearts.

You made the world a brighter place. I am sure I will see you again one day & I will join you in playing with the heavenly and tamed beautiful animals in Heaven.

My thoughts & prayers go out to the beautiful and sweet Philberts. You all are blessed to have had Derek with you.

Love,

Frank

Lisa Corbett

February 9, 2012

Derek was funny, creative, highly intelligent and played a mean game of mud football. Our family will miss Derek's presence on this planet. The Philbert family is in our thoughts and prayers. We share their grief. Lisa Corbett, Loren & Paul Saunders.

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