Derek John De Leon

Dear Derek,

I miss you my dear friend. Happy Birthday, God Bless. I will never forget you. You were a great friend. There are times when I cannot believe you are gone.

Love,
Noelle

Happy Birthday Derek! The Big 30!!! I know, I know, I am right behind you and will be turning 30 this year too. boo hooo hooo. lol. How we used to enjoy a good laugh at Mike for being 30! And now look at us, we are hitting that milestone. I miss you and think of you every day. I have articles of you and the homies posted in my office and I smile at them, remembering you and the wonderful person you are and the legacy you have left for all of us remember.
Man, how things have changed so...

Dearest Derek -

It's been a very sad year for our family. We miss your jokes, your humor and the laughs that could have been if you were here with us. It's been a real roller coaster with you gone but somehow, we're still here.

The triathlon and Team in Training experience was INCREDIBLE, INCREDIBLE. Thank you for sharing it with us and opening our lives and hearts to such a great experience - - It'll be something we'll never forget. Really.

We...

Dear Derek,

Where do I begin? Last weekend, your "warriors" did you proud!!!!!! Of course, I was an emotional wreck, but that's to be expected. Driving into the park brought back all the memories of last year when we went to see you compete in the triathalon. I felt your presence everywhere!!! We met so many people who loved you and missed you as much as we did!!! How blessed we are :). You even sent some of us a new friend, also named Derek to let us know you were there. I...

Hey Bro,

I know it been a long time since I have written you but I have never ever forgoten you. Today was filled with joy and love from our dearest and greatest family and friends. Some of us joined "Team and Training" just like you did and we worked out tails off to join, race, and do the "2005 Wildflower" in your honor.

Well guess what I crossed the finish line in 5 hour 10 minutes. I knew you were with me every step of the way especialy on my run that was bad...

Dear Derek,

I know I haven't written you as quicky as some other people did. But you know that I have been thinking of you and your family for awhile now. You also know that I am a really horrible procrastinator!

I wanted to write to you and also your family. When I saw you in the casket, I just freaked out. It was just so final. I was crying so hard. After I "recovered", I was walking to the back to leave. I don't think I have ever been so crushed.

...

Dear Derek,

I don't really know how to begin. I miss you very much and still have to remind myself that you really aren't with us any more. I'm so greatful that we were friends and shared a lot of great memories together all the way back to our Mitty days. I will always remember your amazing spirit, strength and positive spin on life. And especially your laugh and smile-which are unforgettable.
Love,

Mimi

KUYA DEREK! Happy BELATED Birthday!! and HAPPY 40TH DAY today!! You are now in the pearly gates of heaven with your mom and family. My HUGS and HELLOs to EVERYONE up there and SMILE for your festive gathering this Sunday. I miss you soooo much, but knowing that you are now in heaven gives me more comfort. MISS AND LOVE YOU! P.S. Your birthday celebration was soOoOo fun in the suite! I hope you enjoyed ;) GOoOoO A's!! =P

Derek -

It's hard to believe you're gone, but just like so many people who have written about you, I will always remember your smile, your laughter and your positive outlook on life. I always admired your ambition to make the most of every opportunity, and you trully did. I think of you often and miss you dearly. But I'm so blessed to know that you are with our Father in heaven and that our earthly goodbyes are really just 'see you laters'.

Love,
Hannah