Derrick Michael Forte

Derrick was born on October 9, 1980, in Thornton, Colorado, to Michael and Carol Forte.

He spent his childhood in Hudson before the family later settled in Brighton, where he would spend the rest of his life. Derrick attended Brighton schools and went on to earn his diploma. After high school, he attended Lincoln Tech Automotive School to pursue his passion for working on American muscle cars. Soon after, he began working in the family trade of machining.

In July of 2000, Derrick welcomed his son Devin into the world, and fatherhood became the center of his life.

A few years later, he met and married the love of his life, Melissa "Missy." Together, they shared nearly two decades of love, partnership, and devotion. As life evolved, Derrick took tremendous pride in becoming a grandfather and was affectionately known as "Papa."

Derrick enjoyed camping, tinkering on cars, creating projects on his 3D printer, and woodworking. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and had a heart of gold. Fiercely protective of those he loved, he made sure the people in his life never doubted how deeply he cared for them.

Derrick is survived by his wife, Melissa; sons Devin and Taylor; parents Michael and Carol; brother Brandon (Angela); bonus children Brannan and Serenity; grandchildren Luke, Lillie, and George; nephews Brandon and Jayce; and grandparents Victor and Nancy, along with many extended family members and friends.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents Salmo, Eva, and Elmer Cook; uncles Kenneth, Sam, and Rick; and aunts Darla and Donna.