Derek L. Gariepy

Derek L. Gariepy, age 53, of Vicksburg, passed away August 31st, 2025. Derek was born in Oaklawn, Illinois, the son of the late Francis and Beverly (Huber) Gariepy. Derek is survived by his brother, David (Lura) Gariepy, nieces, Emma, Fiona, Tess and nephew, Adrian, several cousins and many great friends and coworkers.

Derek graduated from Chicago High School District 218 and attended Moraine Valley Community College studying general education. After the family moved to the Upper Peninsula, Derek attended Northern Michigan University and completed his Bachelor's degree in Public Relations.

Derek moved to the lower peninsula to pursue work and ended up building a house in Vicksburg. In the most recent years, Derek worked for Aurora Long Term Care and enjoyed the people and the work.

Derek was passionate about his faith and belonged to the Centre Avenue Church of God, where he met many friends. Derek was also a member of the CMA - Christian Motorcycle Association, and enjoyed the many rides they completed together and the community and fellowship of this group.

Throughout his life, Derek had many hobbies. He loved model trains, motorcycles, old cars, WWF, music and desserts! He traveled to motorcycle rallies in Sturgis, South Dakota and out East in New Hampshire. Derek loved concerts and attended many, one of his favorites being Ozzy Ozborne. Derek couldn’t pass up a plate of cookies or a Sweetwater’s donut or two! He was very thoughtful and generous. If he bought a donut or breakfast sandwich for himself he would almost always buy one for someone else! Derek’s faithful presence will be missed by many.

A memorial service will be held at the Centre Avenue Church of God, 1917 E. Centre Ave, Portage, MI 49002 on October 2, 2025 from 6 - 8 p.m.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Derek’s guestbook and/or share your favorite memory with his family. In lieu of flowers, donations in Derek’s name can be made to Centre Church of God at 1917 E Centre Ave, Portage, MI 49002 and/or Wings of Hope Hospice https://wingsofhopehospice.com or by mail: 530 Linn Street, Allegan, MI 49010

The Gariepy family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097 (269) 649-1697.