I would just like to say that after 20 years, I still think about Derek everyday and miss him dearly. It seems like yesterday that he was here and driving me to friend's houses or just letting me ride with him through town. I thought I was so cool if I could ride around with him and hang around his friends. I was 14 when he passed away and I so looked forward to spending time with him as I got older. I miss his smile and just the sound of his voice. As time goes by, I have to search hard to hear him in my mind. I am so thankful that I can hold on to my childhood memories of Derek and our family being together. I am blessed to have a younger brother, Sam(31), who I love with all my heart and Sam has many qualities that remind me of Derek. I only wish my son, Bailey, would have been able to know Derek. We tell him about uncle Derek, but it's not the real thing! To know him was to love him. This reunion is bitter sweet for me. I am sad that he is no longer here, but so happy for all of you and the time you will get to spend together.
Heather Bailey (Rich)
I would just like to say that after 20 years, I still think about Derek everyday and miss him dearly. It seems like yesterday that he was here and driving me to friend's houses or just letting me ride with him through town. I thought I was so cool if I could ride around with him and hang around his friends. I was 14 when he passed away and I so looked forward to spending time with him as I got older. I miss his smile and just the sound of his voice. As time goes by, I have to search hard to hear him in my mind. I am so thankful that I can hold on to my childhood memories of Derek and our family being together. I am blessed to have a younger brother,Sam(31), who I love with all my heart and Sam has many qualities that remind me of Derek. I only wish my son, Bailey, would have been able to know Derek. We tell him about uncle Derek, but it's not the real thing! To know him was to love him. This reunion is bitter sweet for me. I am sad that he is no longer here, but so happy for all of you and the time you will get to spend together.