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February 11, 1948 - September 22, 2008

Derek sadly passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at his home in Eaglecrest, Qualicum Beach.

He was born in Whitehaven, Cumbria, England. As a teenager he developed an interest in autos and owned various British Sports cars. After immigrating to Canada in 1974, his interest turned to Corvettes and a project car that would turn out taking 25 years to complete. His dream came true when he was able to drive his Gatsby Cabriolet kit car to the 2008 Father’s Day car show. It was truly a work of art. Derek obtained his City and Guilds Journeyman 5-year Heavy Duty Mechanic’s ticket and spent the last 18 years with Leemar Manufacturing in Parksville, where he made many lifelong friends.

Derek spent many years involved in Cub Scouts with all three of his boys. Derek was an avid gardener, having his introduction from his parent’s market garden. He also enjoyed spending time fishing with his father-in-law Med. He had a passion for travel with his family with his most recent trip in April to France, Italy and Spain. Derek’s humour was contagious and he loved to entertain. He was the life of the party and could often be found singing Karaoke late into the evening with friends and family. He was a hardworking, honest man, and was always willing to help others anyway that he could. Derek made sure to start each day with a hot cup of tea and a crossword puzzle and to end the day by watching his nightly TV programs often with a good glass of red wine in hand.

Derek’s future plans included a desire to involve himself in humanitarian projects such as UNICEF or Habitat for Humanity.

Predeceased by his parents, Dixon and Margaret Cowser and his brother Michael. Derek leaves behind his loving wife of 24 years, Sandy, his sons that he was very proud of, Ryan (Tina), Andrew and TJ, his grandchildren Dylan and Alyssa, whom he absolutely adored and his sister Lin Fairbrother (Jeff). He will also be missed by his parents-in-law, Med and Lois L’Heureux, brother-in-law Ken L’Heureux (Corinne), Chrissy L’Heureux (Ryan Duncan), along with many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held at St. Edmund?Anglican Parish at 407 Wembley Road in Parksville ?on October 4th at 1:30 pm. Reception to follow? immediately afterwards at Leemar Manufacturing,?1390 Springhill Road (off Church Road).

In lieu of flowers, please lift a glass of red wine and make a toast in his honour.



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