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BORN
1953
DIED
2011
Derek Collins Obituary
Derek was born October 20, 1953 in Fort Bragg, CA to Kenneth and Gail (Burton) Collins. He grew up in Yuma, AZ. Derek married Cynthia Fox in Alpine, AZ on August 24, 1986. The couple moved to Fairbanks, Alaska in 1991 where Derek worked as a post-secondary education computer instructor. With his knowledge of computers, he would also fly into remote villages where he taught classes as well as learning and enjoying their culture.
Derek loved the outdoors, which made Alaska his true home. When he wasn't teaching computer programming, he was introducing his love of the outdoors by hunting, fishing and camping with friends and family. In 2006, due to health issues, he had to move to the lower 48.
Survivors include his wife, Cindy of Harbor, OR; sons Zack Collins of Brawley, CA and Cody Collins of Fairbanks, AK; grandson Brandon Monroe and mother Gail Ferguson of Cypress, TX; sisters Kathy Hartsough and her husband Phil of Harbor, OR, Cindy Williamson of Cypress, TX; nephews Shawn, Kyle and Qt; nieces Brianna and Krista; stepdaughter Shawnee.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.redwoodmemorial.net
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Derek Collins
2 Entries
Jerry Crump
June 14, 2011
I knew Derek when I was growing up in the North Gila Valley. I knew his whole family. He was always kind and had a great smile and would always laugh. God Bless you Derek, May you know God's Love and Peace. May your whole family always remember the good times and your love. Gail, Cindy and Cathy, my thoughts are with you.
Jerry Crump
Yuma, Arizona
Marsha Dick
June 14, 2011
Derek was one of my instructors at the computer school and I loved him. He was great and helped a lot. My prayers and thoughts are with you.
Marsha Dick
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