DEREK BICKERTON Obituary (2018) - New York, NY - New York Times

DEREK BICKERTON

BICKERTON--Derek,

91, linguist and Professor Emeritus at the University of Hawaii, Manoa died peacefully at home on March 5th, 2018. He is best known for his studies of creole and pidgin languages and of the origins of language as a whole. He is survived by his wife, Yvonne, sons Jim and Ashley and daughter Julie, and seven grandchildren.

To Plant Memorial Trees in memory, please visit our Sympathy Store.

Published in New York Times on Mar. 18, 2018.

Memories & Condolences

Add a photo

Get email updates for this page

Posting Guidelines FAQ

4 entries

April 14, 2019

Reading recent publications on the creole debate, I frequently wondered what Derek would have to say on these issues. He is dearly missed, his intellectual contributions as well as his personal presence.

Jürgen M. Meisel

April 3, 2018

We are saddened by this news. Some people should live for ever, and Derek was one of them. Derek and Yvonne were perfect guests. Derek was one of the most inspiring linguists.
Jürgen M. Meisel & Susanne E. Carroll

Jürgen Meisel

March 20, 2018

This really grieves me. We crossed horns, but with good humor. He was a real friend over many decades (back to at least 1980, I think). Derek stimulated me, challenged me. I'll miss him. Strength to his family. The memories, the ideas, the echo of the voice are our remaining legacy.

Dan Slobin

March 19, 2018

May the family find comfort in God's word and be strengthen during this time of deep sorrow. God keeps those who pass on in his memory because they are precious in his eyes and you have my sincerest condolences. ( Psalms 116:15)

Advice & Support

How to Offer Condolences

Funerals During COVID-19

Grief: What to Expect

Funeral Flower Etiquette

View All Advice & Support Articles