Dereck Lee Lafountain SR.

Dereck Lee Lafountain, 83 of Waterville, Vermont passed away peacefully on October 19, 2025. Born on August 7, 1942, in Burlington, Vermont, Dereck lived a full and vibrant life rooted in hard work, music, and deep devotion to his family.
Throughout his life, Dereck was no stranger to hard work. He held various roles that reflected his dedication and versatility-working in a sawmill, at the Johnson Talc mine, and later serving as both a hospital and school custodian. In addition to his jobs outside the home, Dereck raised animals to help support and feed his family during the years when his children were growing up- a testament to his commitment and resourcefulness.
Dereck is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Edna. Together they built a strong and lively family often referred to as their own Walton clan. Their children- Dereck II (Amy), Julie (Gordie), David, James (Beth) and Dondi (Michelle)- were the center of Dereck's world. He took immense pride in watching their families grow.
He adored his grandchildren: Jeremy (Taylor), Jacob (Danielle), Shane (Mariah), Hannah, Devin (Brittany), Shyanne (Nick), Heather (Will), Jordan (Ashley), Keaton (Maddie) and Konnor. His joy only multiplied with the arrival of great-grandchildren: Jalyn, Ralyn, Kalyn, Eleanor, Addison, Annika, Malia, Dawson, Greyson and Karter.
Dereck is also survived by his big brother Brenton Lafountain (Jan); in-laws Ralph Barry II and Barbara Lowell (Mike); along with many extended family members who brought joy throughout the years.
He was predeceased by his parents Guy and Opal Lafountain; sisters Kay Ingalls, Lynne Duffy, and Gloria Allard; as well as very special in-laws Ralph "Peanut" and Nancy Barry.
A man of many passions beyond work and family life, Dereck had a sharp wit and loved having people around-especially if he could pick on someone good-naturedly. Music was one of his greatest joys. An amazing musician in his own right, he played with The Country Neighbors band alongside Edna back in the 1960's. For more than a decade-and continuing even now- he and Edna hosted weekly jam sessions that became cherished gatherings for friends and fellow musicians alike.
Dereck also enjoyed playing cards- particularly cribbage- and scratching lottery tickets. His annual corn roasts were legendary events he eagerly anticipated each year. Known for asking "Where are we gonna eat?" whenever heading out somewhere new or familiar alike, he brought humor into everyday moments. Right up until the day before he passed away, Dereck delighted in beating certain people at cards-a small but meaningful victory that captured his enduring spirit.
Thanks to Lamoille Home Health and Hospice, he was able to be home where he wanted to be. He thought the world of his nurse, Chantel Henn. He bragged about her to everyone he saw!
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lamoille Area Cancer Network; P.O. Box 828, Morrisville, VT 05661 or Burlington Hope Lodge; 237 East Avenue, Burlington, VT 05401 or Lamoille Home Health and Hospice; 54 Farr Avenue, Morrisville, VT 05661 – are all organizations close to Dereck's Heart.
May Dereck's memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire laughter around kitchen tables filled with music, stories- and maybe just one more hand of cards.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, November 9, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:00PM at Waterville Town Hall. Dereck always wanted a gathering down back by the river, so one will be held in memory when the weather warms up next year.
Honored to be serving the Lafountain family is Casey McNally of the Heald Funeral Home, where message of condolence are welcome at www.healdfuneralhome.com.