Obituary of Derek Vaagen

Derek Vaagen 1978-2016 With devastated hearts we announce the passing of Derek Garfield Vaagen, 37 of Shell Lake, Sk. Derek passed away on Wednesday, May 25, 2016. The funeral service for Derek was held on Thursday, June 2nd, 2016 at 2:00pm from the Lion's Hall in Shell Lake, SK. Derek was born on August 14, 1978 in Edmonton Alta. Derek attended and graduated from Shell Lake School, achieving his grade 12 in 1996 at the young age of 17. After a year of various jobs, Derek found his passion for operating heavy equipment. In Sask. he twinned north of Saskatoon, worked on the #1 at Gull Lake, and turned 20 building highway 20 near Humboldt. One of his proudest moments came in Alberta when he was handed the keys to a Komatsu 475 Dozer, the second largest dozer in the world. Derek enjoyed sports, whether watching or partaking, and he loved spending time with his family playing cards, board games or just talking about machines at work where he also trained his younger brothers (he was very proud of them). He enjoyed building models and then advanced to rebuilding his own vehicles. He easily made many friends and buddies from coast to coast in Canada. And any who took the time to know him will never forget him. He was a loyal friend to many. Derek is survived by his parents Ellis and Carol Vaagen, his brothers Shaun, and Brian (Stacey) and 2 nieces he adored Nova Leigh and Aveah. His maternal grandmother Violet Kison, his uncle Dale Kison, aunt Jeanette Petryshyn nee Kison and his uncle, Russ Petryshyn. Aunts Jean Berg, Helen NcCorchuk nee Berg, Cora Berg (nee Walker) as well as numerous cousins. He will be loved forever and never be forgotten. Memorial donations in Derek’s name may be made to The Canadian Mental Health Association. Family and friends wishing to send email condolences are welcome to visit www.beaulacfuneralhome.com. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to the care of Beau “Lac” Funeral Home, Ed Beaulac, Funeral Director, Spiritwood (306-883-3500).