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Derek David Dalton
1982 - 2011
Derek David Dalton
1982 - 2011
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1982
DIED
2011
Derek Dalton Memoriam
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Mom
November 10, 2024
I often look over my shoulder to the stool at the counter where you sat most every night talking about your day with your favorite drink in hand. I miss your voice but am still able to hear it when I listen to the last message you left on my phone just a few days before you passed. I know you would get a kick out of my new cat who came with the name, Derek. He’s a pistol and a lover just like you. I miss you so much but am comforted knowing you are with those you loved, Grampa ”Bumps”, Gramma “the warden”, and your Uncle Bobby. Someday I’ll be with you too. ❤
meghan kores
November 10, 2024
Prayers are with you all not only on this day but all days.. Gone but never forgotten.. #myfirstbestfriend
Diane (Mom) Wildfong
November 10, 2023
I miss my son, Derek, every day. Soon Gramma will join him, Grampa, and Uncle Bobby in heaven. Knowing they will be together is a blessing.
Jerralyn
April 26, 2023
I miss you...and I'm here... always
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Coleen Wildfong
November 11, 2022
Life is not the same without you. I love you, Derek.
Diane (Mom) Wildfong
November 10, 2022
Diane (Mom) Wildfong
November 10, 2022
Diane (Mom) Wildfong
November 10, 2022
Diane (Mom) Wildfong
November 10, 2022
Diane (Mom) Wildfong
November 10, 2022
Diane (Mom) Wildfong
November 10, 2022
Diane (Mom) Wildfong
November 10, 2022
Diane (Mom) Wildfong
November 10, 2022
Your body is gone from us but your essence and love remains. You´ll be with me always, my son.
Jerralyn Freimark
February 22, 2022
Hey Tigger...You have been on my mind constantly...you live on in so many memories, the ups and downs, all the in betweens...thank you for being a light in our lives.... I love you from the core.
Aunt Coleen
November 10, 2021
Really miss you.....and will forever.
Mom
November 10, 2021
You are never far away from me...my heart and mind is full of loving memories of you, my son. Miss you greatly.
Diane Wildfong
November 10, 2020
I miss you each and every day. Your memory with me is vivid and strong. I listen to your last voicemail and am comforted by hearing your voice. I love you, Derek.
Coleen Sander
November 10, 2019
I loved my nephew, Derek, very much. I think of him all the time, and miss him dearly.
Coleen Sander
October 13, 2012
To Diane, It has been almost a year since Derek's passing. I miss Derek terribly, but also know a Mother's Love runs the deepest for her children. I can't imagine your sorrow, even now, and I pray for closure for you when you are ready to do that. But, a Mother's Love won't let go, I know this. Just know, Diane, that I am proud of your strength through all of this, and your courage to move forward without Derek. We all know he is with the ones that loved him most, and you loved him deeply. It is not "so long",to Derek, but "we will meet again one day". I miss his smile, and how he lit-up the room when he walked in. He was a great son, and my special nephew :)
Ashley Watkins-MacKenzie
October 11, 2012
To the family of Derek- I had the pleasure of attending CMU with Derek. He always knew how to bring a smile to everyone's face and was so fun loving. When Derek talked about his family it was easy to see how much he loved you all. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers always. He will be missed.
November 20, 2011
Dave and Diane, I am so very sorry for your loss. Derek was a great guy and I will never forget how kind he was to me always. I will never forget watching him play basketball, and sitting at the bottom of the bleachers just to have the ball come my way, but good ole Derek flew thru the air to get it and right over my head. I was always amazed to see just how far he could jump, or should I say fly! He was awesome! Derek always talked highly of his family. He loved you all! He is now resting in the arms of the lord. love you all.........Doris Boger
Lori Phillips
November 19, 2011
Dearest Dalton family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss and am holding your family in deep prayer. May our Lord of comfort bring you the peace and serenity that He alone can provide. Derek's authentic joy, ready smile, and sparkling eyes will forever be remembered. God bless you!
Amanda (Walker)Belongia
November 18, 2011
To the family of Derek, I had the chance to know Derek for a few short months a long time ago and even though it wasn't very long I learned right away that he was funny, happy and someone that loved and cherished his family more than most. I am very sorry for your loss and my thoughts and prayers are with you in this tough time. May god give you strength to get through this together.
courtney shattuck
November 18, 2011
derek you went away before we could say goodbye you were such a sweet person who always made people laugh i cant believe your life was cut so short its not fair i hope your up in heaven smiling down on us but i want you to know we will never forget you
November 18, 2011
To the wonderful family of Derek's:
We are the parents and family to one of Derek's old roommates at CMU back in 2002-2003. David C. Steen....Not sure you ever met Dave?
We live in Traverse City MI and want to let you know that our son, Dave passed away in October of 2008.
Dave had a serious heart condition-God gave us 30 precious years together on this earth...
We saw this weeks Obituary we remembered meeting Derek and hearing all the cool stories from David our son.
Dave was alot like Derek in that he loved life, loved people. So Sorry for your loss. It's not easy! We are and will continue praying for you all as you grieve the loss of a great guy!
We make ourselves open to meet with you anytime you are able?
In God's understanding love we send this to you today:
Carl & Cathy Steen
November 18, 2011
Dave,Diane,& Family,
We are so sorry to hear of the loss of your son Derek.You all are in our prayers,& thoughts.His next journey will be that of peace&happiness.Healing will take time,but when you think of him, don't look down in sadness, instead, look up to the heavens where you will smile,knowing he is at home.
Aaron & Sandi Marvin
Jackie Hein
November 18, 2011
I am so saddened to hear about Derek and and am so sorry for your loss. While we haven't had much contact since high school I still have fond memories of his welcoming smile and sociable and friendly personality. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time of grief.
Treasure Perry
November 18, 2011
I was 'then'Treasure Masiewicz. Derek always seemed the nicest and most helpful boy back in school. I am sincerely sorry for you loss. I can't even imagine your family's heartache. God bless your entire family! I have always loved both of his parents!
The Forward's
November 17, 2011
To the Dalton family, we are so sorry for your loss. Your sweet memories of Derek will give you strength... Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. God be with you all.
Shelly Wylie-Marsh
November 17, 2011
Dave, Diane and family, I am so sorry!!! I wish I had the right words to heal this emptiness and pain you're feeling...It's so hard to lose a loved one!! I know you love, miss and want Derek back! It's the memories that give us the strength to go on and smile again. Praying that God gives you strength, comfort and a peace to endure. Growing up in Rapid City, Mr. D you were my gym teacher and Ms. Diane you were my 2nd grade teacher. I've always remembered the encouragement and happiness you shared with me ~ some of my best memories are from Rapid City!
Melissa Knauff
November 17, 2011
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. It's a very sad time, but it's also a time to celebrate Derek's life and all of your cherished memories. I do remember him from high school as a guy with a smile on his face and a great basketball player. I was another lucky kid to have Diane as my 5th grade teacher and Dave as my gym teacher and basketball coach. You both have been very positive influences on countless people's lives. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
November 17, 2011
Dave, Diane and family, we were deeply saddened to hear of your loss. We have fond memories of Derek during his early basketball years. What a great young man! Our hearts and prayers go out to you.
The Wanstead Family, LeRoy, MI
Al Dimon
November 17, 2011
To all of the family of Derek. I will always remember that wide smile and happy to see you attitude. He was in the store a couple weeks ago and said hi Al with that bubbly attitude. My thoughts are with all of you.
GOD IS GOOD
Stephanie Smith
November 17, 2011
Dave, Diane and family, our family wishes to extend our deepest sympathies and wish to offer our condolences. This is such a hard time but you are all fighters and will make it through this time of sorrow to make sure the ones that are to young to remember Derek, always will. Our love to you all. Clint, Colleen, Steph and Dylan
Donna (Wozniak) Couture
November 17, 2011
Diane, Dave and family, I want to extend my deepest sympathy on your loss. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Jolene Terrell
November 17, 2011
I can't even imagine the pain you all are enduring,but know god will give you all you need to get through this. I have such wonderful memories with all of you.The Dalton's have helped mold many of us to be who we are today!
Emily Omsberg-Mayes
November 17, 2011
To the family of Derek, So sorry for your loss. Diane, as an amazing teacher in 5th grade and a great friend Im always randomly running into, my heart aches for you. Dave, as my coach and gym teacher throughout my childhood, Im truly sorry. Its a shame to see a family so loving and caring for others have this happen. You guys are such a blessing in my life, and others. I hope ya'll find peace in knowing hes home. May God be with you. Much love.
Jerralyn Freimark
November 17, 2011
A man who spent his life's mission learning how to love, and teaching others how to care unconditionally. A man who had more love and compassion in his heart than any one person could possibly learn in a lifetime. Even though God decided to take him home early, he always wanted to be with all those he loved to watch over and protect, now he's the guardian angel we all know he wanted to be when here on earth. With compassion in his eyes, empathy in his smile, love in his hands, and his heart on his sleeve, he'd wake in the morning with a breath and a prayer, and lay his head down at night knowing he did everything in his power to conquer his day...always knowing he was going somewhere tomorrow. Not one man could bring Dereks soul down. He knew his objective, and lived a purpose driven life. He knew where he wanted to go and who he wanted to be, no one could take that away, which I believe gave him the peace and contentment we all could feel just being in his presence. A stranger will feel the envelope of his warm embrace, a friend will laugh, an enemy will smile, and family will cry, because the man we all knew was a selfless man, who spent his whole life reaching for the clouds, now we smile, because now we know he holds the clouds in his hands.
Justine Zingg
November 17, 2011
To the family of Derek, I am so sorry for your loss. I remember Derek was always well dressed and so polite in high school, we never hung out, or really talked, but Mr. Dalton was my gym teacher, and Derek's mom was my teacher, and I am so sorry that he is gone so soon...
Joe Hiller
November 17, 2011
We are very sorry for your loss. Your family will remain in our thoughts and prayers.
Meghan Kores
November 17, 2011
Dave,Diane,Leigh Ann
There are no words I can say to take away your pain, nor can I imagine what your families are going threw! But please find comfort in knowing God had a plan for Derek and has called him home!
I have so many fond memories of Derek, Leigh Ann and myself growing up together! Our McDonald's birthday parties, and going to church together! The numerous times I spent the night at your home! Leigh Ann even married Derek and I on your swing set in the back yard!!
Then when we got older all the basketball and baseball clinics! Our lives took separate paths out of high school, but even as adults, Derek always greeted me with his huge smile and a great big hug!! Love you all!
Meghan Kores
Derek's mom
Diane Wildfong
November 16, 2011
A mothers love cannot be duplicated, Derek is loved by his mother. All his talents, emotions, and faults make him who he is. My son. Thank you to all that send their love and prayers. Derek would have liked that. I love it! Thank you for helping us through this. Diane S. Wildfong, Derek's mom
Brandon Wegener
November 16, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Derek will be greatly missed. He was always fun to be around, and I especially cherish the memories with him on the basketball court.
Patti (Edson) Steinberg
November 16, 2011
Dear Diane and David,
I'm SO sorry for your loss. Just wanted to let you know I"m thinking of you both and praying for the Peace that passes understanding.
Sincerely,
Liz, Lorie and Sarah Coppock
November 16, 2011
I am so sorry for your loss we will pray for your family. He will be missed.
Melissa Slick
November 16, 2011
My thoughts and prayers go out to all that were blessed to have Derek in there lives. Growing up in Rapid City it was impossible not to know the Dalton family. Dave you were the best PE teacher and basket ball coach. Diane I remember The day I found out you were going to be my 2nd grade teacher and 5th I was so excited. Your dear mother Barb always there to hold my hand or bandage my knee if I fell on the playground. Derek and Leann always had smiles on there faces and kind words to say. I was blessed to have you all in my life and Derek will never be forgotten.
Gerry Thibert
November 16, 2011
Dear Diane and Dave,
Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers. I have fond memories of Derek playing basketball at Kalkaska High School. I still remember him telling me stories of hunting and fishing with his grandpa.
Sincerely, Gerry and Lillette Thibert and family
Rachel Skaggs
November 16, 2011
You will be greatly missed, thanks for always being sweet to me! God please be with you and your family at this time! my thoughts and prayers!
Lisa Parrish-Greenier
November 16, 2011
Dalton Family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. I will always remember Derek as the little brother hanging around the gym through many practices, AAU tournaments and Gus Mackers! I hope you can find comfort during this time.
Nathan VanProoyen
November 16, 2011
Oh Dave and Family....What a Shock! I am so very sorry for this Deep Deep loss in your lives. We have experienced some unexpected losses in our church the past few weeks and my heart is aching for you as well! I will never forget Derek or his love for basketball (how could he not with Dad and big sister leading the way lol). I always enjoyed his great smile and attitude and always loved playing bball with him. May God give you strength as you heal from this loss!
Jan & Steve Paulus
November 16, 2011
Diane and Dave
Our hearts are broken over the loss of this beloved son of yours. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most sorrowful time. We pray that you will find the peace that God intends for you. Cherish your memories and know that you all are loved by many. Jan and Steve
Jonna Brown
November 16, 2011
Dave, Diane, and family,
Doug and I are so very sorry for your loss. It has always been evident how you both adore your children. Dave, whenever you spoke of your kids and grandkids in the teachers' lounge, your eyes would twinkle. Peace and love to your family.
Shannon & Nate Osborne-Goddard
November 16, 2011
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers.
Dave Dalton
November 16, 2011
As a child I would often tell Derek "of all the Dad's in the world, I'm the luckiest because I'm your's!" He had such passion and was always so much fun! He brought me undiscribable joy! God blessed me with the last six months with daily conversations while he helped me building my new house. I have no doubt that this was God's plan, even though I cannot begin to understand it. My house and especially his beautiful stone work is an everlasting memory I will always treasure! I love you my Super Duper!!
shar way
November 15, 2011
Dave and family, i am just so sorry. I cut Dereks hair for quite a long time and he was always such a joy to have in my chair. He usually had a story of some sort to tell and always had me laughing. I always thought of him as such a kind soul. His life was cut way too short and i can't imagine your pain.
With love and deepest sympathy
Shelly Blaisdell-Berkshire
November 15, 2011
I'm so sorry for your loss. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers.
Marilyn Avery
November 15, 2011
Diane and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I can`t imagine the sorrow. that you must all feel. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with all of you
Coleen Wildfong Sander
November 15, 2011
Derek had a sparkling personality that attracted most anyone into good conversation. He loved me and called me Aunt CoCo.
He would call me for someone to lean on and did so without judgement. I loved his smiling face, and his hunger to be with family as he valued that very much. He will be missed and never forgotten. Until then my nephew.....
Andria James
November 15, 2011
I have very fond memories of growing up with the Dalton Family...although I have not seen Derek recently I will always remember him as a great kid with a great sense of humor and always a smile on his face! My thoughts and prayers are with you all! Rest in Peace Derek!
Erik & Meredith Brown
November 15, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
November 15, 2011
Time and prayes are the key to healing pain. My heart aches for you. I"m sorry for your loss. God Bless
Amy & Tim Barber
November 15, 2011
Our thoughts & prayers are with the Dalton family.
Betty (wyskochil) Philip
November 15, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. My deepest sympathy for your loss.
Christyn Herman
November 15, 2011
Diane,
I have wonderful memories of Derek from school; he was a fun, charismatic guy and I will always remember him with that huge smile. I am keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Maloo Murrey
November 15, 2011
My heart is full of love and strength for your entire family. What I know to be true is that Derek so radiantly reflected the beauty and love of all those around him, kindling the heartfires of those in his midst in the classroom, on the playing field, as a passer-by, or as an affirming support to a new teacher. His light shines to such a great extent that it continues to glow in the hearts of all those he touched well beyond his physical lifetime. His beauty is forever a part of this world. What a gift to have known him.
Love to you all,
Leanne Maloo Murrey ("Ms. Peterson")
Mike Harrison
November 15, 2011
I am truly sorry for your loss. I was a witness to the joy and happiness of life that Derek showed more often than not. I was able to experience and get to know who he really was. He will never be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers have gone out to you and will continue to go out to you.
jamy vandergriff
November 15, 2011
Please know that you are in our prayers. Cling to the happy memories... and I know there are many. I remember Derek being a good friend to my daughter Lonny in elementary school. Another generation of our two family's ...touching one another's lives. Much love to you all.
November 14, 2011
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Barb Poli
November 14, 2011
Tony & I are very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are being sent to you all.
Tracey Rapoza
November 14, 2011
Lots of love and prayers.
November 14, 2011
I'm so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Dawn (Paulus) Richards
November 14, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Carleen Hubbell
November 14, 2011
Keeping you and your families in my constant thoughts and prayers.
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