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As reported to me by Jan Buchwald Millard (Class of 1975) and Lizz Mehegan (class of 1974.)
Jan had this to say of her fond memories of Derek. Derek was in the Class of 1975. she met him in 1970 at Alessandro Jr. High and he was her first "going steady" boyfriend in the 8th grade. She thinks he transferred to March Mountain their senior year at MVHS (though she is not certain, as she graduated at mid-term that year). Derek had an older brother named Brent (Class of 1970,) and a younger sister Joleen (Class of 1977,) all MVHS alumni.
Lizz added more from his Facebook link to his Obit with this…
Derek Edward Fusmer
5/3/1957 to 10/3/2014
Derek lived and died in total Gratitude for his life here on Earth. He fought liver cancer for 6 years and 8 months, the last four years with no invasive treatments. He won the battle! He is home, home at last, a true Angel, blessing us from above.
Derek loved talking to people, drag racing, The Raiders, FIREWORKS, a true pyro to the end, laughter, family, and the LORD. Derek loved his community. His roofing company put on several roofs for Habit for Humanity. In our darkest hour when we had $50.00 left for food, knowing that you can never out-give the giver we started making peanut butter and jelly sandwiches in the park. What a blessing the outreach was to him. What we gave we received back threefold.
Derek is survived by his loving wife and partner in time, Robin Dee Fusmer; his dearly loved Mother and Pops, Gladys and Les Polzel (K. Falls); the three biggest joys of his life, his sons, Derek James Fusmer (25), Dylan Thomas Fusmer (23), Dale Ray Anderson (18); his super-special little sister, Jolene Archer (MN); his hero, big brother, Brent Fusmer (K. Falls); three step-daughters he loved as his own, Maranda Griffin (Robert), Jamie Voetsch (Kenny), and Jenna Barrett (Ben); his grandchildren who gave him much joy, Michael Ulrey (19), Chance Griffin (13), Christopher Toper Pina (8), and Nick Barrett (3); many extended family and dear friends, and last but not least, his beloved service dog, Booboo.
He was lovingly cared for by Dr. Albert Newton MD Hey Doc, I am dying with a full head of hair, Dr. Shanhong Lu MD of Mt. Shasta City, Namaste The Providence Hospice team, especially his nurse, Nancy Heyerman Hey Nancy, third times a charm, time to go. His extra-special caregiver and partner in trouble making, Christie Sabin Here's my list. The two young men who gave him a better quality of life Jacob Patterson and his son Derek Jr. Let's Roll!
In loving memory of Derek Fusmer we will be celebrating his life Saturday October 18, 2014 at Rogue Valley Christian Church 1440 S. Oakdale Ave. Medford Oregon. Service is at noon with lunch following. Derek had one wish for all who knew him. Please do something kind for a stranger in his memory. If you are inclined to make a donation in his name, his choice is Hope Chest, 1457 E McAndrews, Medford OR 97504 www.mailtribune.com/hopechest.
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Terry Sweeney (1968)
Although I did not know of Derek, I am sure my little sister would have... Derek has come home to the Halls of Valhalla (although he did not graduate with MoVal High. He did grow up in the "Val') so it is easy to say, he knew many and was friends to many more in his life. It is a sad day now without him as I am sure he will be missed, but on this website he will not be forgotten as long as we remember him and visit him here... Here where it is warm and a time of innocense resonates of times where we were young and had fun... "Lest We Forget!
Lizz Mehegan (1974)
Ah Derek... part of the behind the pool gang. Parties, concerts, fun times and always a smile. I hadn't heard anything about Derek in many moons until we found each other on facebook a few years ago. I was very sorry to hear of his recent passing.
Another Viking gone but not forgotten. Rest in peace my friend.
Janet Buchwald (Millard) (1975)