Derek Sather

It might be too late for me to say goodbye my friend but its March 16, 2023. I still close my eyes and remember our chat on the landing craft moments like those are never forgotten RIP BRO. .

Derek was one of my first friends and I could never have asked for a more adventurous and caring spirit to give me the wonderful memories I have. Whether we were painting the bathroom mirror with toothpaste (much more fun than finger painting on paper) or simply running around as tigers (Derek) and ballerinas (me) we were never short of things to do when Derek's imaginative mind took hold of an idea. Derek infused his enthusiasm of life into everyone he met and stories of our childhood time...

I haven't known Derek since he was probably 10, but I always remember him being full of life and a great kid. Growing up, the Sather family was so special to me that I spent more time there than at my own house, and they always took me as one of their own. My heart goes out to you all in this time of sorrow.

Words cannot discribe the profound sadness we felt on hearing the news today about Derek. For the 14 years we lived in the Harbor, we were blessed to know the Sather Family. We always felt welcome at their home at Easter, (almost as though we were a part of their extended family), and enjoyed the time spent with them at all of the many other family celebrations we were privilidged to attend. I am so grateful that my son Spencer had a chance to know and spend some time with a young man as...

I have known Derek since I moved to Gig Harbor from Alaska, back in 8th grade. He was one of the first people to become a friend to me. He was a very sweet, caring person and my condolences go out to his family. Thank you, Derek, for sharing your light & energy with everyone you met.

I have been blessed to know the entire Sather family and each one of them have added to my life and the life of my children. Having Derek as a neighborhood joy, along with an energetic student during his middle school years, has enriched my life. My heart aches at the loss of this passionate young man. As a mother, I cannot even imagine losing a son. I know that the Sather family is filled with much love and support for one another, yet nothing can take this pain away. Please know that I...

Little, curly, red- haired, Deek running around with great spirit. That is how I remember him as a little guy. Then I would see him around the harbor before he grew up and I remember what a big heart he had, like all of the Sathers. He was a lucky guy, to have a loving family, and a drive to go see life rather than waiting for it to come around. He lived a lot of years in a short time, but I am really saddened to hear this news. The Sather kids have the traits of their parents and that is why...

We know Derek through Ryan Kelley, our brother-in-law. Though we only spent time with Derek on a few occasions, we knew he was a great guy, someone who loved his family, friends and his dog. Our thoughts and wishes for peace go out to his family and friends.

Margaret and family
We never had the privilege of knowing Derek, but knew Chris very well from the Gig Harbor Fire Dept..
What a wonderful family all of you are, our deepest sympathy and prayers go out to all of you.

Sincerely
Daryl and Judy Smith
formerly from Gig Harbor now reside in Spokane, WA.