Family and friends
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Join MemoriesLeigh Dobson
We had the good fortune of knowing Derek for more than 40 years. He was always a gracious guest & a generous host and never without a great story. We did a deep dive when he visited us in London where he regaled us with his stories of his early life just a tad north of South Kensington. We moved back in 1981, just around the corner in Toronto wher...
Leigh Dobson
I met Derek at UBC 54 years ago. He was “the carpenter from Middlesborough” who charmed everyone on his arrival, was always a lots of fun and wore a huge smile. It’s almost impossible to even summarize our relationship, but let me deliver some highlights. It was a credit to his tenacity and goal setting that Derek was able to gain entrance to UBC ...
Leigh Dobson
Leigh Dobson
Rick McGraw Serenading Gayle with one of his love songs.
We are sincerely sorry to hear of our friend's passing. We know Derek and Jill through our neighborhood at Eagle Creek and Leigh and Rick Dobson. Derek's spirit was inspirational to say the least. We will miss him. Don and Jan Woodley
Dear Jill and family, We were very sorry to hear of Derek's passing. Please accept our deepest sympathy. We have fond memories of your wonderful parties at the farm and in the City at Christmas. Sadly Peter was not able to meet with Derek again in his last summer in 2015. Patricia Sheldon and Gregory Jedlicka
Dear Jill and family, We are so sorry to hear about Derek.. Martin and I have very fond memories of Derek at the Toronto Lawn with his wonderful sense of humour and singing. Of course Martin loved to ham it up with Derek as one of the " Three Tenors "at Foot Faults.. We spent many black tie occasions for Presidents Party at TLTC . His family meant ...
Diana Parker
Diana Parker We are so deeply sorry and saddened to have lost our dear friend Derek. Our hearts go out to you Jill and family as we all share our wonderful memories of your kind, generous and loving Derek. With our love, Di and Steve
I have two abiding memories from growing up that have stayed with me and am reminded of especially at this time. As his oldest mate Rick McGraw mentioned, Dad was originally trained as a carpenter in the shipyards of Middlesborough and, in his prime, always kept his tool bench well-organised. The first memory is the smell of sawdust. I think my fi...
To Jill and Family: Twenty five years ago plus we were introduced to Jill and Derek at Thornhill Golf and Country Club. From the start we played golf together twice a week and as his sight declined extra help continued to to be given so he could play as long as possible. We enjoyed many outings and evenings together with and without other frien...
Diana Parker