Derek

Derek (written by Katie)

I don’t know where to start when I talk about Derek.  He is my rock.  He is my best friend.  He is my hero. 

When I first met Derek I was immediately captured by his zest for life, his love for everyone around him, his passion for all he did, his loyalty to family and friends, his commitment to his faith, education, and values, and his burning desire for adventure.

I have never met or heard of a person who disliked or had anything bad to say about Derek.  This is true because Derek is true to who he is.  He has such a deep passion for life and others and this draws people to him.  His charisma has helped him to succeed in all areas of his life.  It helped him to be an excellent river guide because he was able to connect with his passengers, make them feel safe, and give them the experience of a life time.  It helped him on his mission in Neuquen, Argentina.  His ability to draw people to him, his dedication to the Lord, and his hard work ethic allowed him to bring people to Christ and help lift them up.  Last of all, it has helped him in his school and career.  He has excelled as a physical therapist by creating bonds with his patients by understanding their individual situations, giving extra time to meet their individual needs, and getting to know them as people, not just patients.

Derek is my rock.  He is there for me 100% and the glue that holds our family together. Throughout our marriage, there have been ups and downs, but no matter the situation, he is there.  He is a listening ear, a voice of reason, a fellow to council with, a confidant, a shoulder to lean on and to cry on, and arms that lift and carry when needed.   He is not one to complain or get bogged down by trials and difficult situations.  He helps me to see the silver lining, even in the worst of situations, and makes the best with what he has available to him.  His attitude is positive and helpful.  And he is not only my rock, but the rock of his family as well.

Derek is my best friend.  We do everything together.  I can’t think of anyone I would rather do anything with than Derek.  He is my adventure partner and we can’t wait to take our children on the adventures that are so dear to our hearts and have helped shape our marriage.  He is so much fun.  He is always thinking of fun things to do; whether it is dancing to the radio in the kitchen, seeing who can do the silliest running moves, or coming up with creative date night ideas.  There isn’t anyone he doesn’t get along with and I am so lucky to have him in my life.  Because he is my best friend, I can think of nobody more qualified to be a father.  His love of life, the gospel, and others will help him to rear our children in the best possible manner.  Just watching him with our nieces and nephew is a sure answer to the question.  He is the favorite uncle because he is the most fun.  However, when he needs to be firm he can be.  He can get the picky eaters to eat.  He can get them to go to sleep when the time comes.  He teaches them valuable life lessons, and will even change diapers.

Derek is my hero.  He doesn’t budge on what he believes in.  He stands firm at all times, despite the situation.  I have never seen him compromise himself or his values for anything.  He knows who he is.  He knows what he wants from life and he is determined to do all he can to achieve those goals.  He is not afraid to rely on the Savior.  He is not afraid to ask for help when needed.  And he is always there to lend a hand.  He puts other’s needs before his own on a daily basis.  He is always thinking of others and how he can best serve them.  Yet another reason he will be the world’s greatest dad because he already is the world’s greatest husband and friend.