Derek Joseph Gaffrey
Derek Joseph Gaffrey
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Derek Gaffrey Obituary
Derek grew up in Southfield and graduated from Southfield High School. He went on to receive his bachelor's degree from Northern Michigan University and continued to get his Juris Doctorate from Wayne Sate Law School.
At Wayne State, Derek was a nationally ranked debater. After college, he went on to become a collegiate debate coach. In his career, Derek focused on supporting non-profits and commercial real estate.
Derek enjoyed football, music, and politics. He was known as an avid sports fan. He was involved in all the sports and activities his son, Cooper, participated in whether he was his coach or the #1 fan on the sideline. Derek also loved animals. He liked to travel extensively throughout the United States as well as abroad.
Derek had a constant desire to know others and expand view on the world. He never met a stranger - he was a dear friend to everyone that he met. Derek was selfless, charitable, and found joy in others' happiness.
Derek will be remembered as a loving father, husband, brother, nephew, unlcle and best friend. He was charismatic, funny, had a giving soul, and a huge heart.
Derek was the loving husband of Judith (nee: Olkowski). Dear father of Cooper. Cherished son of Bob Gaffrey, Sr., and the late Cheryl Graham. Beloved brother of Bob (Diann) Gaffrey, Jr., Shannon Gaffrey, and Shaun (Amanda) Gaffrey. He is further survived by many aunts, uncles, and a multitude of nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 23, 2022, at 11 am at Christ Church Grosse Pointe Episcopal, 61 Grosse Pointe Blvd., Grosse Pointe Farms 48236.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Derek's name to George Ziegelmueller Forensics Endowment https://giving.wayne.edu/donate/gaffrey
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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28499 Schoenherr Rd, Warren, MI 48088
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