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Derek Lake Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Derek Lake
Scott Spurgiesz
June 22, 2024
Hi Derek. I am just revisiting this page to share my love and gratitude for our time together some 27 years ago now. Whenever I think on or travel through Williamsburg I remember riding our bikes through the area together and I have beautiful memories of that time. Much Love! miss you man.
Peter Rowell
October 9, 2023
I new Derek from West Linn, Oregon. Although it has been many years since Derek's passing, I can vividly remember Derek's enthusiasm for life and his kindness towards virtually everyone he encountered. He was truly someone whose positive attitude and can-do spirit made those around him better. My heart goes out to those who knew and loved Derek.
Scott Spurgiesz
June 18, 2023
Hi Derek and family. I am so sorry that you were taken at such a young age from this world. The world could really use more people like you Derek. For what it´s worth, I think of you often when I am trying to be a leader or am in a group setting. You had such an amazing way with people. It´s amazing that it has been twenty years. Love you bud. Scott
Heather Hatfield (Coltharp)
October 14, 2003
Dear family of Derek:
Words cannot express the sorrow I have felt since hearing about Derek, although I know that he lives and is still larger than life. He was one of my best friends serving together in the Virginia, Richmond mission. On hard days, which were many, I remember calling him at night (he was my zone leader) and his words of encouragement and his positive attitude and sense of humor. The memory of his laugh and smile will permanantly be engrained in my mind forever. Audrey, I don't know you, but I am so sorry. You were so blessed to be married to that man, and you must be someone special for him to have chosen you for his wife. To Derek's family, my thoughts and prayers are with you also. I remember him talking about how much he loves you. Derek, I love you and look forward to seeing you again in the next life. I know you will work hard to serve the Lord there.
Love,
Heather Hatfield
Adam DeGraff
August 7, 2003
Dear Lake Family,
I was saddened to hear today that Derek had completed his mission here on earth. I was blessed to get to know him while we served the Lord in Virginia. I echo the sentiments of others in this book- I don't remember ever seeing him without a smile on his face. He served and loved with all his heart, every day. I am grateful our paths crossed, and will miss him. May God bless you and your family in this difficult time.
Emily Arlander
August 1, 2003
Dear Lake Family,
I send my deepest regards and sympathy to your family at this time. I went to college with Derek and know what an outstanding person he is. I was just looking at photos of us from Ricks the other day, thinking about Derek and the good man he is. My thoughts are with you all, espeically his wife- we met only briefly once at Ricks, but I will be praying for you. I am to be married in a few days and can only imaginge how difficult it is. God bless and strengthen you all.
With sincere sympathy,
Emily Arlander
Jeanne Daily (Jespersen)
July 29, 2003
Thank you for sharing this member of your family with us. I have such wonderful (and funny) memories of serving in VA with Elder Lake.
My heart aches for you and I rejoice with you in the eternal nature of families.
Jennifer Wilkinson
July 22, 2003
Lake Family,
Your son was an amazing leader and example to all. Those qualities will stick with those of us that were able to serve with and around him in the mission. I am inspired by his hard work. I am thankful that I was able to know him! My prayers are with all of you and especially his sweet wife.
Vickie Braegger
July 22, 2003
Lake Family:
As I have read the entries in this guest book, I see that there is a common link in all of them, Derek's smile. He truly loved life, and those around him could not help but love life also.
I knew him as a missionary in Virginia and considered him a great friend. When I look back on the things I learned as a missionary, Elder Lake is the source of a lot of those lessons. We are here to have joy, and Elder Lake certainly lived that way and helped others to do the same. I feel greatly blessed to have been associated with him and will always smile when I think of him.
I know this is a great loss to this world, but I know Elder Lake continues to touch many lives and and is bringing them great joy.
At this time may you feel the comforting arms of our Heavenly Father and know that Derek is still smiling and loving life.
Pita Lamu Paeamoelotu Vehekite Tu'akoi
July 21, 2003
Dear Derek Lake
Our great loss in this world is but a greater gain on the other side of the veil. I had to take the day off of work when I heard about our loss of one of the brightest stars that lit up the world. You would never know how many times your positive self blessed my life both on and off my mission. I learned from you that life is like riding a see-saw, that one can enjoy the going down just as much as they can enjoy the going up. You always had such a positive perspective of things. I don't know of a single moment when you didn't have a smile on your face. I loved you so much because you were already what I was trying so hard to become. May the Lord bless your family with comfort during this short separation. I guess now you can actually come and visit me in Tonga, you will love it there, it is full of people like you. Mortal life may have ended for you, but your memories will live throughout all eternity in the hearts of all who had the privilege to meet you, including mine. So long my dear brother. I wish I could wish you rest, but with such a willing spirit as yours, I know the Lord has much work for you to do so your chances of getting any rest are slim to none! But, happiness I gurantee will be plentiful where you are.
'Ofa Lahi Atu
(Elder)Pita Tu'akoi
TONGA Is.
Vicki Jennings
July 18, 2003
Dear Lake and Sorenson families,
Our Family had the privelage of getting to meet Derek while we lived in Richmond, Va. My children were incredibly moved by his story at a fireside one night as he told his story of trying to be Superman when he was little, and 'flying' off the top of the slide only to break his legs, his recovery time in the hospital, and how he spent that time learning of "true heroes" in the scriptures from his mom day after day. His testimony was strong, pure, undeniable and the spirit was strongly felt by everyone as he spoke. My kids have remembered his words over the years and his talk left such a positive, lasting impression on them. We will never forget him and were so sad to hear of his passing. Please find some comfort in knowing that Derek touched more people than you can even imagine and our entire family was better for having known him.
With much love for an outstanding missionary and all around great guy! The Jennings Family
Alexander Keeton
July 12, 2003
Dear Lake and Sorenson Families,
Elder Lake taught me how to be a missionary and how to love unconditionally. Now, this Master Teacher gets the same opportunity in a new field of labor. All of you have been greatly blessed to have him in your lives, just as I was blessed to know him, if even just for a short season. God bless all of you.
Suzie Johnson
July 1, 2003
The Lake Family,
I can remember Derek's smile - he lit up a room. He was such a wonderful guy.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Rebecca Sauter-Bledsoe
June 30, 2003
Lake Family
Know that Derek touched more lives then you will ever know. He was a wonderful example to those he knew, a friend to all that crossed his path, and one that will be greatly missed. His smile will be remembered always. I feel so honored to have known such a influential person.
Brian & Alexis Cornilles
June 30, 2003
Dear Lake Family:
We both went to highschool with Derek and he was a very special personand made a lasting impression. He was always one to make you smile just by being next to you.
Derek you will be greatly missed.
Jen Loveland
June 29, 2003
The Lake Family,
I feel so touched and lucky to have had the opportunity to be friends with such an amazing person like Derek. He created so many positive, lasting memories, and I smile whenever I think of him. My entire family is thinking of you and send our sincerest sympathies to your family. Take care Derek, you will be so missed.
Love, Jen, Mar, Bob, and Sarah Loveland
Jake Waits
June 27, 2003
Dear Lake Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Derek growing up and kept in touch with him by mail during his mission. His kindness and optimism have always been and will always be an inspiration in my life. You will be missed Derek Burton Lake.
Tyler Sather
June 26, 2003
To the Lake family, Derek and I grew up just a few blocks away from each other in West Linn. He was always making me laugh with his great sense of humor and his infectious smile. Derek was the kind of guy who made you a better person just by being around him. We are all lucky for having him in our lives and he will truly be missed. Sincerely,Tyler Sather
Lindsay Herron
June 26, 2003
Dear Lake Family~
Derek made an amazing lasting impression on each life he touched, and he will truly be missed. I have wonderful memories of Derek in highschool, all of which include lots of laughter and Derek's huge smile:) He could light up a room. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Bryan Reed
June 26, 2003
Dear Lake Family-
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Derek was an unbelievable person and one of the truest friends I have ever had in my life. I've never met anyone who smiled more or who lit up a room quite like he did. He went out of his way to befriend everyone and had a special way with people that has always amazed me. Thanks for just being you Derek.
Love,
Bino
Angela Yost
June 26, 2003
Dear Lake Family and Friends-
I am so sorry about your terrible loss. Derek was an amazing and kind person to everyone he knew. I have wonderful memories of him from high school and will always smile when thinking of him. He will be missed.
-Ang.
Ben Redfern
June 24, 2003
I was honored to have known Elder Lake. He left a lasting impression on me. I remember watching him as a missionary, he was so humble. I remember a particular time watching him in a Sacrament meeting in the Williamsburg Ward. We were singing "God be with you till we meet again" He was crying uncontrollably. I know that he loved and cared for his family very much. I am sure he was thinking of them. I am grateful for his sincere testimony. Please accept my condolences.
Brian Cantelope
June 24, 2003
To the Lake Family:
How heart-sick I was to hear of your son's passing. I knew and worked with Derek a great deal while he served in the Norfolk, Virginia area. The entire ward grew to love him as one of our own. He will be deeply missed by us here in the field. Our prayers our with your family. We love you Derek.
Stephanie Thatcher
June 24, 2003
Family of Elder Lake,
That is how I knew him. He was an amazing missionary and I am sure he lived his life with the same enthusiasm and energy that he had as a missionary. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of loss.
S. Thatcher
Eric Wilson
June 24, 2003
The Lake Family-
We are so sorry to hear about your loss. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. I have some very fond memories with Derek from West Linn high school.
Love, Eric and Wendy Wilson
Jeff Johnson
June 24, 2003
Elder Lake,
Derek, I just wanted to write and tell you and your wife about the impact you had on me in Virginia. You were an amazing missionary, that knew how to have fun and bring people to Christ. You made me want to be a better man. Thank you for your influence in my life.
God Bless,
Jeff Johnson
Stacey Silva (Robertson)
June 24, 2003
Lake Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. You should be so proud to have had such a wonderful son, brother, and husband. I will remember him as always making people laugh and smile. There are a lot of memories of Derek throughout high school and all of them lead me to a smile. I am thankful for the opportunity to have known him!
Byron & Nancy Martin
June 24, 2003
Dear Audrey and Lake Family,
We express our sorrow for your loss. We, along with many others are thinking of you often and keeping you in our prayers.
With love,
Byron and Nancy Martin
Michael, Shelly & Family Hunter
June 24, 2003
Our family sends our deepest sympathy and love to the Lake family. We continue to pray for comfort to be with you. We love you.
The Hunters
Kathryn Cziuzas
June 23, 2003
Dear Audrey,
Thank you both for your friendship and kindness. You are truly amazing individuals. May the Lord continue to bless and comfort you. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Randy and Carol Astle
June 23, 2003
Audrey and Family,
We are terribly sorry for your loss. Our prayers and hearts are with you at this time. God bless you.
Audrey, thank you for your valuable friendship while we were in Provo. We are thankful for the spirit and joy Derek and you shared with us. It was fun playing card games, swimming in the pool, watching Derek's kayaking videos, and delightful to see Derek enjoy scrapbooking. Thank you again for inviting us to be your friends; your friendship is priceless.
Carol and Randy Astle
Sandra & Dave Moran
June 23, 2003
Dear Audrey, Veldon, Diane and Family, Mr. & Mrs. Lake and Family
We can only express the heart felt sorrow we feel in your loss of Derek. We are sure he will be greatly missed by all he has touch in life. In times like this, you will feel the strength from all those whom Derek and you have touched. Our deepest sympathy to all.
Alex & Heather Roms
June 23, 2003
The Lake Family, and the Sorensen Family:
May our loving Heavenly Father hold your dear families in the palm of His hand at this difficult time. Our thoughts, hearts and prayers are with you.
Love, Heather, Alex and Lilly Roms
Delanie Matheson
June 23, 2003
Audrey,
We are all thinking about you. We Love You!
Love, Your Ricks/Russia Trip Friends
Jessica Moon
June 23, 2003
Audrey,
I'm so sorry to hear about Derek. You two were such great examples to Steve and I. Thank you for your sweet spirits and your cheerful smiles. We're so grateful to have gotten to know the two of you. We will keep you in our prayers.
Love, Jessica and Steven Moon
Tabitha Davis
June 23, 2003
Our regards to Mrs. Lake and Derek's family & friends. We had just met Derek through our coaching sessions w/ PMI. He was always such a gentleman. Laughed a lot. Very helpful and always willing to go the extra mile to help us...even on unplanned/scheduled sessions! Our prayers are with you and your family at this time.
Respectfully,
Mrs. Tabitha Davis
(Richard & Tabitha Davis)
The Rasmussen Family
June 23, 2003
Dear Lake Family -
You are in our hearts and prayers.
With Love,
Ras and Amanda and kids
Chris and Jessie Lewis
June 23, 2003
Audrey,
We are praying for you and your family. Please accept our condolences at this time.
Lynda Kimball Richards
June 23, 2003
Steve & Beverly,
I was sorry to hear about Derek. It has been a long time.
Valerie Bateman
June 23, 2003
I knew Derek at Ricks College. He was such a happy, fun, easy going, great guy.
My heart goes out to his wife and family. You are in my prayers.
With Love,
Valerie Bateman
Lynda Kimball Richards
June 23, 2003
Beverly,
I am sorry to hear about your loss. It's been a long time.
Karl Bennion
June 23, 2003
Derek
I appreciated your sincere, genuine friendship and your expression of true christianity. You demonstrated that you can have a full life and a Christ centered life too. I will miss you as a friend.
Adryenne Cooper
June 23, 2003
Brian,
Our Team will continue to pray for you and your family during this time.
Derek and Christine Wilson
June 23, 2003
Dear Derek and Audrey,
It has been such a joy to know such a wonderful, happy couple. You have both been such a great example of kindness and love. You were not just our neighbors but our friends and our family. We love you both. Thanks for always smiling Derek.
Love, Derek and Christine Wilson
Chuck Clark
June 23, 2003
Dear Audrey, Beverly, Steve, and family,
My family and I grieve with you in Derek's sudden passing. Please accept our heartfelt sympathy. We also trust with you in the knowledge of our Heavenly Father's plan of happiness, the promise of our Savior's resurrection, and the assurance of temple blessings. We pray the Comforter will bring peace to your thoughts and feelings through this tender time.
Love,
Chuck and Elaine Clark and family
Vanessa Lanctot
June 23, 2003
To Audrey, The Lake Family, and the Sorensen Family:
Thinking of you always and forever.
With Much Love
Vanessa and the Lanctot family
Alison Moffatt
June 23, 2003
To Audrey and the Sorensen and Lake Families:
May you find comfort and strength in those around you. Your faith, family and friends will always be there to support you. Much love from myself and my family,
Alison Moffatt.
Scott Spurgiesz
June 23, 2003
Derek,
Your impact in my life has been felt ever since we served as companions in the field. I, like many, am saddened to think that someone as wonderful as yourself will not be with us here anymore.
I love ya man.
Spurgiesz
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