DerrickMILLERDerrick died tragically at home on Wednesday, March 31, aged 76. A dearly loved husband and best friend of Joyce, a devoted and loving dad to Carol, Steven and daughter-in-law Kathryn, a special and loving Grandad to Arielle, Samuel and Emily, and a dear brother to Barry. Leaving school at 15, Derrick became a professional painter and decorator, where he spent many happy years working with his best friend, the late Jack Holden. In 1961 he met Joyce; they were married in 1968 and have spent 52 happy years together. When Carol and Steven were born, this made the family complete. Derrick was always a keen motorcyclist, riding road bikes, and trials bikes for many years. We spent many weekends as a family in the countryside attending trials competitions, along with a close group of other riders and their wives and families. Derrick was interested in sales in various ways; working as a van salesman of cooked meats, he decided to start his own business as a cooked meats van salesman. Whilst running this business he made many friends through the years on his rounds. He successfully ran this business until his retirement at the age of 65. Derrick was a very active man; after retiring he volunteered at the Empire Theatre, Blackburn, working his way up to be a Duty Manager. His love of musicals led him to visit different theatres all around the country. He also enjoyed playing table tennis at Hyndburn Sports Centre. Derrick’s one and only passion was swimming; he has been involved in coaching and helping swimmers for the past 40 years. He helped on the poolside at a number of different clubs, but his heart has always been with Great Harwood Otter Amateur Swimming Club. He has been the Head Coach at the Otters for many years. Whilst being at Great Harwood, Derrick has coached up to three generations of different families along with many many more. Derrick will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him, family, friends, swimmers and their families. A service will be held on Monday, April 19 at St Bartholomew’s & St John’s Church, Great Harwood at 10.30am, conducted by Rev Graham Birch. This will be followed by cremation at Accrington Crematorium at 11.40am. Family flowers only, but, if desired donations in memory of Derrick to Great Harwood Otter ASC or St Bartholomew’s & St John’s Church, Great Harwood. Funeral director: Great Harwood Funeral Services.
Notify me with new activity on this notice
