Derek Boogaard Obituary
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116 Entries
Maryann
September 5, 2011
I just want to say Derek you will be missed ,training camp will be here soon I will say a special prayer for you and I know your spirit will be there with the Rangers and all of your former teammates
andy louttit
May 31, 2011
Let me start off by saying my prayers are with your family in these tough times. Nothing will ever be the same since Dereks untimely passing. I have been a Boston fan since I was born but ever since Derek entered the leauge I loved him. I only wish I had the privilege of knowing him as close as his family and teammates did. I grew up playing hockey. I could skate before I could walk thanks to my dad. I ended up having a pretty good career in hockey too. Unfortunatly it was cut short do to concussions. Like Derek I was a "big guy" 6'5 255lbs. I started playing juniors when I was only 14 and even then i was over 6 feet tall and 200lbs. I know Derek knows what comes with being the biggest guy on the ice. Everyone wants to take a run at you and when they do they always go up high. I officialy had to hang up the skates when I was 19 it was the hardest thing I had to do. I had offers from Teams in the WHL and USHL but i was unable to persue them.
It takes a very special player and person to capture the hearts of millions like I know your son,brother,cousin has. From what I can gather Derek was one hell of a guy. From all the charity work he did, not because he had to or was asked to but because of the satisfaction it gave him to see the impact he had on his fans. Also all of the work he did for familes that had parents in the Military and the way he would stop to sign ever jersy or picture for all of his fans...
I will never be able to watch a Wild game again without getting a little choked up. We will all miss Derek, and what he has done for the communities that surrounded him.
God created Derek with that massive body just to so he could fit his massive heart in there...
RIP Boogy we all miss and love you.
Fawn & Rick Gafencu
May 24, 2011
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Dee
May 24, 2011
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998
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The Listers
May 22, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers for the Boogaard family. Boogey thanks for the memories!!! God must have known your pain and had a better spot for you---Archangel Boogey?
Derek with Sean's cousins after a Tigers game
Greg and Denise Connors
May 22, 2011
We were very fortunate to get to know Derek when he and Sean were teammates and roommates with the Tigers. We always used to joke when he and Sean would enter a room as he would always walk behind Sean as if he was his personal body guard. That was the type of guy Derek was,he always had their back!!
After a game with the Tigers one night Sean's 2 yr old cousin refused to talk to Sean as he was afraid of him since he had been wearing a goalie mask during the game. Ironically Derek bent down and started talking to little Dylan, picked him up and we were able to get a pic of them. Derek truly was that teddy bear that everyone talked about off the ice and was loved by people of all ages.
We remember having the pleasure of watching him play in the Saddledome with the Wild and along with Kelly and Doris Sullivan getting together with him after the game. We were so proud of him and we told him so. He was so humbled by our comment.This was the Derek we knew and loved.
Joanne, Len and family our prayers go out to you. We can't imagine what you are going through and wish we lived closer so we could offer our condolensces in person. We hope your many beautiful memories of Derek will help keep him close to your heart. Know that Derek will be your guardian angel and your protector.
Derek you will be missed by many, and we feel fortunate that we got to know you when you were a Jr player. You worked so hard to get to the NHL and no player deserved it more than you. We love you,will miss you and will never forget you. Please watch over your family and comfort them as they are going through this very difficult time.
The Connors family
Lawrence & Chris Sarich
May 22, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
ALLAN FLUET
May 22, 2011
Derek, I loved watching you play in the NHL. Last summer I was hoping you would become an Oiler and feel that passion and support Oilers fan's have to offer.
I'm sorry how much the game took out of you. You will not be forgotten.
Tim Rankin
May 21, 2011
As I watched you play over the years I could tell you were not a mean person. To have to turn anger on and off, and to decide when to, coupled with the ability to dominate others is a great responsibility that I feel you fulfilled with an honor quite rare. 2 minutes for looking so good.
Kandice Dubois
May 21, 2011
I am sorry for your loss. Derek will be missed.
Dustin & Doug Molleken
May 21, 2011
So sorry for your loss. RIP big man you will be missed.
The Mollekens
john
May 21, 2011
Derek, I started watching hockey again because of you. I will never forget you, My condolences and prayers to your family through this tough time. love ya man
Orville White
May 20, 2011
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Ron Beasley
May 20, 2011
My sympaty goes out to the Boogard family. Derek was without a doubt the most popular player here in Minnesota. Hockey will not be the same without him. We miss you Derek.
May 20, 2011
Dear Derek's family,
I'm so sorry for your loss. I did not know Derek. I read it online, but as a mother who lost a son at age 22, I know what you are going through. I hope someday you can find peace and can cherish the memories he left you. It is not easy; your life has changed forever; no one understands but the ones who have lost their child. Your surviving children will help tremendously. As a fellow Canadian (even though living in Florida), please come and join us on the Compassionate Friends website for online chat - it has helped me so much through the last five years. Don't hesitate to email me to vent anytime you wish. We are all in a group we don't want to be in; sorry you are here, but hope we can help.
Jackie Lazar
May 20, 2011
My deepest sympathy to the Boogaard family on the loss of such a loved son, brother and friend. Sometimes love is for a moment and sometimes love is for a lifetime. Sometimes a moment is a lifetime. Revel in the moments you had with Derek - as those will last you a lifetime and beyond. I pray for your comfort in this time of loss. Know that he has touched the hearts of many and that is a joyous legacy in itself.
David Elko
May 20, 2011
Boogey, while you were with the Rangers only 22 games, you were still a fan favorite and will be remembered forever. I also identify with guys in your position, as the fighter willing to take the bullet and do the work that not many are willing to do. Rest in Peace Boogey, we will miss you.
MN HOCKEY FAN
May 20, 2011
Deepest sympathy to the entire Boogaard family. Met him a few times and enjoyed watching him drop the gloves. He will be missed by many. May you find comfort knowing that he is now at peace and will be a forever guardian angel. RIP Boogs. You will be forever missed, but your legacy will always live on.
Rico, Lori & Allie Scalze
"Mia the Hamm" & "Sir Boogaard Von Sin Bin"
Pam Traiser
May 20, 2011
To the family of Derek, May God comfort you in your loss of a great man...He was and always will be a fan favorite of the MN WILD..I'll never forget watching him play and also when I met him,always a smile...R.I.P. "Boogeyman" ..you are missed by many....
Sheyna Senger
May 20, 2011
R.I.P. Derek Boogaard #24 "The Boogie Man"
A. Reed
May 20, 2011
It breaks my heart to hear about the death of such a young talented athlete. It's a tragedy to die so young and my prayers go out to the parents and family of Derek. It's comforting to know that God is near to those broken at heart and those crushed in the spirit he saves.
Holly Coulter
May 20, 2011
to the boogard family,sorry for your loss.he was a good hockey player.Holly Coulter(saskatoon,sask
Barb Flaherty-Ringgold
May 19, 2011
I have been reading all the news articles, posts, and viewing the video tributs. It is apparent that Derek was loved by all. As a family the loss is umbearable, but you must be so proud to know how many lives he touched, and that he is missed by so many. He did more in his short life than most achieve in a lifetime. He was definately a man that others could look up to.
I am a MN Wild season ticket holder and he made watching the games more exciting. I will miss the little smirk on his face. Hockey will not be the same without him.
God bless you Boogeyman!
Erika Schnure
May 19, 2011
I was shocked and very saddened to hear of Derek's passing. As a hockey fan, I loved watching him on the ice. He was just so young, and this is a terrible tragedy. My condolences to the Boogaard family, and all his friends and fans. He will truly be missed.
May 19, 2011
My condolences Joanne & family on the loss of your son. Take stride in knowing that he may be in a better place and is watching over you.
Remember the best thing about your child for the memories live on forever.
May he rest in Peace.
Chris & Val (Zarkow) Higgins Calgary, Albert
Brad & Stacey Kozakewich
May 19, 2011
Our condolences go out to the Boogaard family. I didn't know Derek as well as others but I can verify he was a great person and more then willing to make extra effort for others.
After meeting him twice (through close friends) we were coming through Minnesota and he didn't hesitate for a moment to get us tickets to witness a sellout crowd cheer him and the Wild on.
danybhoy
May 19, 2011
God bless Derek's family & friends during this sad time. He is gone much too soon. May he be at peace, may his family & friends remember the good times.
Tawna Molleken
May 19, 2011
We were very saddened to hear the news of Derek's passing. He will be remembered as a great friend to many members of my family. Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this most difficult time.
T. P.
May 18, 2011
I am very speechless and saddened by hearing this news. May John 5:28, 29 be of comfort to you.
Jacquelyn Clay
May 18, 2011
My prayers go out to his family and friends for their loss... He will always be remembered! A Hockey fan,
brenda colmaen
May 18, 2011
you will be missed ...may god bless you
Billie Boeche
May 18, 2011
I'm so sorry for your loss. Derek was a GREAT person and hockey player.
BAB--Loves Hockey in Tx
David Schantz
May 18, 2011
Rest In Peace Boogeyman. Friends and family of Derek Boogaard will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Simpkins Family
May 17, 2011
Minnesota will never forget you Boogie Man!
Lori
May 17, 2011
Your family are in our prayers. So sorry for your loss.
I Thessalonians chapters 3, 4, 5
lex
May 17, 2011
RIP You will be missed
LOUISE BLUNT
May 17, 2011
MY THOUGHTS ARE WITH THE BOOGARD FAMILY IM SORRY FOR YOUR SAD LOSS MY THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU AND FRIENDS FROM A ICE HOCKEY FAN LOUISE XX
May 17, 2011
"WHEN WE ARE BORN WE CRY AND OTHERS SMILE, WHEN WE DIE WE SMILE AND OTHERS CRY" I'm sure he is smiling back at all of us---Hocky fan in MN
Denise Belnoski
May 17, 2011
You will be missed. RIP.
Flyers Fan~
Denise
Andrew Rodriguez
May 17, 2011
Fellowship of Christian Athletes
McIvors
May 16, 2011
Our family is so saddened by the death of Derek . During his playing time in Prince George BC Derek lived with our family. He was like another son and brother to my husband and I and our 3 boys . He was gentle , kind and so much fun to have around . I was always so proud to wear my Boogaard jersey. Our thoughts and prayers are with Len and Joanne and their family during this most difficult time . The McIvors will miss you Derek .
l. T.
May 16, 2011
So sad to hear about the loss of a loved one that loved the game may the family of Mr. Derek Boogaard, received the needed comfort from God's word here at Isaiah 66:13, which says" Like a man whom his own mother keeps comforting, so I myself shall keep comforting you people"
Nora Nell Hamburge
May 16, 2011
As a Minnesota Wild fan I had the privilege of watching Derek play. Missing him and sending thoughts and prayers to the Boogaard family.
May 16, 2011
To the family please accept my condolences.The death of a love one is one of the most devastating experiences a person can face,be assured that you are not alone in your grief.I find much comfort from the bible where it assures us that "Our heavenly father will wipe out every tear from our eyes,and DEATH will be no more." Recalling happy memories of the times you had together will help you to keep smiles on your face and joy in your hearts.
Donald Rucker Chicago
May 16, 2011
R.I.P Boogie man. you will never be forgotten. you will always be remembered as the best hockey fighter and player ever. my thoughts go out to the family of this young man. Elmira NY
Tim "T-Boy" Boudreaux
May 16, 2011
Thanks Derek for all the awesome times we shared with you in the cajundome,we're gonna miss you greatly! God Bless!!! Geaux Gators!
Ogie Oglethorpe
May 16, 2011
You will be missed. RIP,my friend.
joe mulpagano
May 16, 2011
GOD BLESS YA BOOGIEMAN.YOU LL BE MISSED GREATLY ..MY THOUGHTS N PRAYERS GO OUT TO THE BOOGAARD FAMILY ...
Jeannette Wade
May 16, 2011
Family and NHL Family, sorry for your loss. Will keep you in my prayers. GOD Bless
Hockey Fan
May 16, 2011
I remember his time in Louisiana with the Icegators in the ECHL, every time they played the Baton Rouge Kingfish, we were in for a night of rough and tumble hockey. RIP Boogie...
May 16, 2011
We enjoyed watching Boogie play hockey
very much. You will be missed. Rest in peace.
Evette
May 16, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Margaret Beard
May 16, 2011
I am very sorry for your great loss, may the God of tender mercies and the God of comfort, " 2 Cor 1:1-4 be with you all at this difficult time in your lives. May you all " Throw your burden on Him and He will sustain you all... You are in my prayers.
Danna
May 16, 2011
RIP Derek. The whole country is saddened by the news of your passing. You have made your family proud, the same way you have made us, your fellow Canadians, proud. You will be greatly missed.
Blackhawk Fan
May 16, 2011
RIP "Boogie man" You were the best to ever drop the gloves. You will be missed. Deepest sympathy to your family. You are now in God's hands.
Mike
May 16, 2011
RIP Derek. I knew you better as a friend then as a hockey player, and after reading all these memories of you its clear you touched a lot more hearts then just your friends. I was looking forward to seeing you this summer but I guess thats going to have to wait till we meet again on the other side. Wish you were still here and so do the rest of your friends! Love ya buddy!
Roxanne Riesselman
May 15, 2011
Derek.......Boogey .........was a favorite player while he was with the Wild, always loved to see him play! A big teddy bear he was, great sense of humor, great team player, and was a joy to watch play the game! We will miss him terribly. RIP Boogey...........love ya!
Sharon Stafford
May 15, 2011
We knew your son and brother when he played for the Prince George Cougars - we still billet players and still enjoy it. But to hear of Dereks passing was a real sad day our blessings and prayers go to you and your family! I remember Dereks first goal as a Cougar and the excitement of it in the rink the whole team came on the ice to congratulate him, it was awesome.
Victoria&Andrew
May 15, 2011
A Goal Achivement
inside a life of a
HockeyStar'
Our condolences to
"DEREK" ripGodBless
Kathy Barnes
May 15, 2011
I want to share a story about Derek, My son took his young boys to watch a Rangers Practise in Toronto. My younger Grandson (4 yrs) didn't know that he had to be aggressive or pushy to Hi-Five his favourite Goalie. Well he missed him, Derek must have saw the saddness on Blake's face-when his Hero walked by. Derek stopped and handed Blake his Hockey stick. That Day Blake had a new Hero! Thank-You Derek Rest In Peace
May 15, 2011
RIP Boogie! You will be missed greatly! We are in shock in Minnesota!
MELINDA LEA
May 15, 2011
We are not human beings that have spiritual experiences, rather we are spiritual beings that occasionally have human experiences. His spirit, forever in our hockey hearts!
Linda DeVore
May 15, 2011
I'm so glad I had the chance to meet the man. I do treasure the photo of him and myself. God bless his family. One soul that will will very much be missed.
Mike Ford
May 15, 2011
saw derek play for P.G. in junior,his tenacity and determination to improve as a hockey player,as well as his well known kindness off the ice,made him a special person,my condolences to his family and loved ones.
May 15, 2011
To the family of Derek Boogaard, you have my deepest sympathy for the loss of your beloved one. Our heavenly Father is with you, and He will revive your spirit and crush heart-Isaiah 57:15. (Erma L. Davis, Park Forest, IL.)
God Bless....
May 15, 2011
Good Lord....I'm so sorry
Heidi Rentz
May 15, 2011
Sorry for your loss,he was a great player,and will be missed, RIP Derek.
May 15, 2011
I AM TRULY SORRY FOR THIS YOUNG MAN LIFE TO BE TAKEN AWAY SO YOUNG.PLEASE FIND COMFORT IN READING ECCIESIASTES 9;11.AW.HOUSTON,TX.
chi town finest
May 15, 2011
r.i.p
Rose M Gagnon
May 15, 2011
It is very shocking to lose a player so young and so strong. His very name struck terror in the hearts of many who played for the opposition. My condolences go out to his family and friends. It was a nice tribute to him on HNIC last night. I hope he was watching. We are all very sad.
May 15, 2011
Very very sad news to hear. I loved to "hate" him when he played against us, but that was testament to how powerful he was. RIP Boogie Man, thank you for your dedication to the sport and to the communities that were blessed to have you helping them.
_Vancouver fan
Jenn Lodge
May 15, 2011
This is just heartbreaking! My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends! They are also with his NHL family and fans! I'm sure Derek & Probie might be sharing some stories right now! He was a talented young man who is gone way too soon. ~ Detroit Redwings Fan!
Dennis Walker
May 15, 2011
Derek was a great guy and a heck of a player for the wild. A tremendous loss for his family and the entire hockey community. My condolences go out to his family at this very difficult time.
corey clark
May 15, 2011
God must have need a fighter on his team.Derek you will be missed rest my friend
Bob Westaff
May 15, 2011
Len, my deepest heart felt sympathy to you and your family. Peace be with you
Laura Hargrave
May 15, 2011
My heart and prayers go out to his family. Taken way to early, may he RIP.
Merlina Reynolds
May 15, 2011
My most heartfelt condolences. I first became a fan when he played for Prince George Cougars. I got to meet him at a Meet & Greet and was blown away by how nice & polite he was.
You will be missed by all in the hockey community. I am & forever will remain a Boogey Man fan. Derek, thank you for teaching my little bro, at hockey camp, how to play the game.
Rob Isler
May 15, 2011
Rip
barry underwood
May 15, 2011
So sorry for your loss. He touched so many and he will be your special angel looking down on you keeping you safe
Jamie Wright
May 15, 2011
Very Sorry For Your Loss! Being a lifelong Rangers fan, i was so happy when he came to play for them. He was the best at what he did, and will be missed by all in the hockey community. We will always remember the Boogey Man! #24 #94
Kathy C
May 15, 2011
My prayers and thoughts go out to Derek family the Rangers family and the whole NHL league. Whenever you lose a player from any team the league all pulls together as one. Too young, so talented and awesome to watch, he had the look at fear to the other players in his eyes but he loved the game and we love to watch the game. God Bless you Derek you will surely be missed..
Leslie Hartman
May 15, 2011
I am sorry about the loss of Derek he was a great guy and I am one of his fans!
jill sciortino
May 15, 2011
Too Young, Too soon!! RIP
Stephanie Hartman
May 15, 2011
R.I.P. Derek Boogaard and you would be missed very very very much!!!!!!!!!!!!
Leslie Hartman
May 15, 2011
I am sorry about the loss of Derek and he was a great player and I am one of his fans!
Erica Larson
May 15, 2011
He can truly never be replaced. What a tremendous loss. May God bring comfort and peace to his family and fans.
M H
May 15, 2011
Unforeseen occurrences befall us all says Ecclesiastes 9:11. God will allow us to take refuge in him and he will be our stronghold to cope during difficult times like these. (Psalms 91:2)
May 15, 2011
Derek made watching hockey enjoyable. It is difficult to understand the sudden loss of a great person. Rest in peace as you fans will never forget you.
Kathleen and Robert Burch
May 15, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with Derek's family. So sad a great young player is no longer with us! He will be missed by many! Gone but will never be forgotten!!
May 15, 2011
my thoughts and prayers to the family a man with so much talent we are ranger fans and will miss Derek god bless and rip cathy bretzius catasauqua pa
May 15, 2011
He was gone too soon, may he rest in peace. Prayers to his family and friends.
Tom Bouchard
May 15, 2011
My sympathies to Derek's family & Friends, rest in peace ..
Mary Davitt=Bocchino
May 15, 2011
I am sorry for your tragic loss. As a parent my heart and prayers go out to you.
R Golay
May 15, 2011
To the the family of Derek Boogaard - May God give you peace and comfort through his word and the Lord Jesus Christ during this time of sorrow, I know that he will be missed by many.
pam kinder
May 15, 2011
im so sorry, i love hockey i guess the fighting was my favorite and so young with so much talent, my prayers go out to his family RIP pam
ratnar ragopian
May 15, 2011
ratnar ragopian
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