Derrick Wood

It is with heavy hearts yet profound gratitude for a life beautifully lived that we announce the passing of Derrick Wood, a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Derrick peacefully departed this world on April 12, 2026, in Alberta, Canada, at the age of 72, after a brief but courageous battle with an infection. Born on March 11, 1954, in Ottawa, Ontario, Derrick was the cherished son of Teresa McHale and Douglas Wood. He grew up with a close-knit family, sharing laughter and adventures with his siblings, and carrying forward a legacy of kindness and humor that would define his own family life. In 1972, Derrick married the love of his life, Diane, on the first of August in Ottawa, Ontario. Together, they shared a remarkable 54-year journey filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support. Derrick and Diane were blessed with two children, Karen and Ian, who carry forward their father’s gentle spirit and love for life. Derrick's career was one of dedication and hard work. He began his professional journey with Colonial Furniture before the family's move to Alberta in 1979, where he found fulfillment working at Thomas Skinner and Sons, and later at Edge Productions Ltd. His colleagues remember him as a diligent worker and a man of quiet integrity. Beyond his career, Derrick found joy in simple pleasures. An avid golfer and sports enthusiast, he relished trivia of all kinds and was famed for his repertoire of "awful Dad jokes" that never failed to bring smiles to those around him. Music was another of Derrick's passions; he loved playing the guitar and singing, with The Beatles holding a special place in his heart. Derrick's family fondly recalls his mischievous side, which sparkled through his love for a good joke or prank. He was a masterful baker, known especially for his amazing cookies, and many memories were made around the kitchen table playing cards with loved ones. Derrick was predeceased by his parents, Teresa and Douglas Wood, and Emile and Margaret Seguin, his brother Douglas Wood, sister Cathy Wood, his grandchildren Scott Sirman, Jennafer Skinner and cherished in-laws. He is survived by his devoted wife Diane, his children Karen (Jason) Bell and Ian Wood, his grandchildren, Chelsi (Joel) Balogh, Samantha (Kyle) Parks, and Matthew (Lain) Skinner, and his great-grandchildren, Tayden and Colton LaFortune, Isabella and Jordan Sirman, Rowan Skinner, and Emma McGregor. He also leaves behind his siblings, Karen Collyer, Jeannie McCarthy, Theresa Wood, and Tim Wood, along with numerous friends and extended family who will miss him dearly. A service to honor Derrick's life will be held on April 20, 2026, at 2:00 PM, at Serenity Funeral Services, located at 4702 51 Avenue, Leduc, Alberta. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all Derricks friends, family and co workers who have reached out with their support and love. As well to the doctors and nurses at Grey Nun's Hospital and The Royal Alexandra ICU for their compassionate care during Derrick's final days. Though Derrick's physical presence is no longer with us, his legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will forever resonate in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know him. As we gather to celebrate his life, we remember a man who lived quietly yet left a profound impact on all who knew him. May he rest in peace, knowing he was deeply loved and will be dearly missed.