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| Name: | Sierra |
| E-mail address: | sierra.kaiser@gmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Sister |
| Comments: | Hey bro,
Just wanted to let you know that I've got your hat. I've been wearing it a lot lately while out on walks with Anton (he is your nephew... He's pretty cool. You'd like him.). You are missed indeed! Love, Sierra |
| Name: | Cam Landon |
| E-mail address: | camlandon@yahoo.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Friend |
| Comments: | Your always in my heart and on my mind brother. You the man Derek. |
| Name: | debbie |
| E-mail address: | debsterama |
| Relationship to Derek: | favorite (everybody's favorite) |
| Comments: | Thinking about you today. I think about you every year on June 5th (well, and other times too). You are--and always will be--very missed.
|
| Name: | Deborah |
| E-mail address: | ddebrunner@gmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Work with Dad (Tim) |
| Comments: | I am so moved by what has been shared here, thank you for letting me in, getting to know you and your family better. This makes me want to really live! Thank you for this gift. |
| Name: | Debbie |
| E-mail address: | debsterama@gmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | favorite |
| Comments: | Thinking of you. You are always in our hearts.
We will never forget. |
| Name: | Tim Snellings |
| E-mail address: | tims@nettop.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Dad |
| Comments: | Hi Derek: Wow, 7 years...how true it is how 'fast' this life is...'but a vapor' in the perspective of eternity. I and many others who love you so much stop today especially, to think about you and how much light you brought into our lives and this world. One day, each of us who have a relationship with Jesus Christ will join you in heaven for eternity. My hope is that will will look back on this 'short' time on earth as a distant memory and the pain of this life without you will vanish as we (together) reunite with our LORD and Saviour...how cool that will be!!! Life goes on here on planet Earth, but it is clearly NOT the same without you here. As we prepare for Sierra and Christoph getting married and Tyler's college graduation in December, your presence will be GREATLY missed. You would be so proud of your sister and brother as they both move forward with making important decisions for their future. You are always with us, often in our thoughts and always in our vision of a future in eternity together. We love you and miss you, Dad |
| Name: | deb |
| E-mail address: | debsterama@gmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | your favorite... :) |
| Comments: | Thinking of you today and always....
you are loved, missed, and remembered. |
| Name: | Sierra Snellings |
| E-mail address: | sierra.snellings@gmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Sister |
| Comments: | Hi brother,
Just wanted to remember you today. I miss you and so wish that I could share my news with you. I'm engaged! I already know how much I will miss having you there on the special day. You are dearly missed. Love, Sierra |
| Name: | Sierra Snellings |
| E-mail address: | sierra.snellings@gmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Sister |
| Comments: | Hi brother,
Just wanted to remember you today. I miss you and so wish that I could share my news with you. I'm engaged! I already know how much I will miss having you there on the special day. You are dearly missed. Love, Sierra |
| Name: | Tamara Robbins |
| E-mail address: | tamara@postpro.net |
| Relationship to Derek: | friend, co-worker, kayaking partner |
| Comments: | Well, D, time has certainly passed. I keep that picture of you (the one I took of you on our couch - you saw it the morning you died. You thought it looked "gay" ) on my wall wherever I am living. I love your infectious grin, that radiance you always had. You had a grace about you that I have very rarely encountered. I miss you, Derek, and look forward to romping with you in Heaven... Much love to your family, and a Happy Easter and celebration of Christ. |
| Name: | Tim Snellings |
| E-mail address: | tims@nettop.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Dad |
| Comments: | Well Derek, it has been 5 years since you moved to heaven. Today, June 5th (2005) is always a very sad reminder of your early departure from this earth. Today was also a day in which you were remembered and celebrated by many. Your brother and sister and Deena and I all celebrated your life in our own way today. Katie and Tyler went to the ocean and had a special time of remembering you. Grandma Pat called to remind me that she was having a mass said for you today. Your good friend (and ours too) Kassidy called and sent some wonderful Christ filled love our way today, in honor of you. Russell stopped by and spent some nice time visiting with Deena and me chatting about his life and also remembering you. He updated us on your other buddies lives, Mike & Cam as well. You were VERY MUCH on their minds/hearts too. Corbett, my buddy from my Men's Group, sent some flowers which were a big blessing and 'CARE' filled outreach to Deena and me. Pastor Ron gave me a very special hug that brought a tear to my eye today on the way out from church, telling me, eye to eye, that he is aware of how hard today is for me and that I am in his prayers...how precious. Ron was there for me/us on the day of your move, so he holds a special place in my heart. Basically, you left such a BIG HOLE on this earth when you left, TODAY, I was reminded again, that there are many of us who still carry a LOT OF LOVE FOR YOU. I/We miss you SO VERY MUCH.
God is gracious to me though, even though you left early... from my perspective, yet HE encourages me that this life 'is but a vapor, here today and gone tomorrow' (whether it's 50 years of 50 days, from the etneral perspective it is a spec of time). My hope and faith is that I will see you 'soon' in heaven with all of the other Saints, family and friends and our LORD. We definitely have some catchin' up to do. I love you so much Derek...see you soon, Dad |
| Name: | Kassidy Johnson |
| E-mail address: | kassidyj30@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | bf growing up |
| Comments: | Well D, here we are again on this day of June 5th and it's hard to beleive that it has already been 5 years since the good Lord took you for himself. It's amazing that time goes by so fast but I think by Grace the Lord has shown me gently reminders of you almost everyday since you've been gone.
It's crazy, I've been dating my boyfriend now for almost 4 years(on and off :)), and the other day we were in the pool and he was laughing really hard and it took me back to the good old days of the pound. The other thing that kinda freaked me out was that he laughed just like you. It made me really happy because ever since then I've realized that you guys do laugh the same. Through the years of knowing him I have always seen huge similarities in the two of you and maybe that's why I love hime soooo much. It's crazy because I've already been done with school for a year now and have a real job... by the way this growing up stuff is hard sometimes, but it's cool. I miss you, but know that everytime I talk to you, you hear me. I've realized over these college years that good, true friends are hard to come by. It makes me appriciate our friendship in the purest state that friendships could have ever been. We were so young, inocient, un-corupted, we were sincere with each other, we loved each other to the fullest amount our little heart knew how to... and I miss that. I don't know if you know this but the neighborhood changed once you left. It was never that fun anymore to go swim and pretty soon the pound became overgrown and that big tree we used to love to race to the top, wasn't the same without you. You probably didn't realized how many lives you affected while you were here on earth, but I hope you know everything was better when you were there. I know this is the page to say "goodbye" but in my heart I refuse to say goodbuy to you ever. So untill next time I look up in the sky, say your name, hear your laugh, feel in the water of the river, or meet you in Heaven, I will be missing you and loving you with all my little heart knows how to. Forever and a day, Kass |
| Name: | Sierra Snellings |
| E-mail address: | sierrasnellings@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Sister |
| Comments: | Just thinking about my brother... I sure miss you, brother. I am working at a kids camp in Fanning, Austria, and there is a kid who reminds me of you, when you were younger. I can't believe it has almost been 5 years since the last time I saw you or talked to you. It makes me so sad to think that I will never know what kind of man you would have become. Love, Sister |
| Name: | TA |
| Comments: | Derek you were alwasy the guy I looked up to the most. I miss all the good times we had. It has been a long time but still miss you man.
TA |
| Name: | ellen |
| E-mail address: | jelle_babe13@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | none |
| Comments: | I am from australia and was looking up Nevada union high on the net because my cousin is haveing and exchange with one of the girls there. i found this and spent some time looking at wat people wrote . Its really really lovely the thingss everyone said in dereks dream book . i experieced loss lat yr when my best friends had to move to melbourne because her 2 sisters and parents dieid in a car crash . and then again when my uncle died in a car crash, so i feel for the friends and family of derek.
with love from australia!!!! and RADFORD COLLEGE , Canberra . |
| Name: | joe |
| Comments: | Was Derek buried or Cremated? I would like to visit his grave, if he has one. |
| Name: | stefanie |
| E-mail address: | shshshakin5@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | siblings in Christ |
| Comments: | i came upon this website looking for pictures, and i got pulled in. the story is very heartwrenching. i can see the love everyone who knew derek had for him, and i am very sorry for your loss. i will pray tonight that God keeps derek happy and in good company until he can be reunited with those he left back on earth. good luck to all of you. |
| Name: | stefanie |
| E-mail address: | shshshakin5@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | siblings in Christ |
| Comments: | i came upon this website looking for pictures, and i got pulled in. the story is very heartwrenching. i can see the love everyone who knew derek had for him, and i am very sorry for your loss. i will pray tonight that God keeps derek happy and in good company until he can be reunited with those he left back on earth. good luck to all of you. |
| Name: | Keahi's Thoughts |
| E-mail address: | http://home.hawaii.rr.com/keahi/FamilyVoice.htm |
| Relationship to Derek: | Click the link above to remember a familiar voice |
| Comments: | These are only my thoughts, within the confines of my own mind expressed from the depth of my heart that they may be shared in confidence and in the confines of yours.
Keahi |
| Name: | Keahi's Thoughts |
| E-mail address: | http://home.hawaii.rr.com/keahi/Within_Reach.htm |
| Relationship to Derek: | Similar feelings, similar times, similar family, similar rhymes |
| Comments: | I wanted to add this link above to make it easier to access a few thoughts, should anyone be so inclined.
|
| Name: | FRED MAGA MUMU MUMU |
| E-mail address: | FREDMAG@FSMAIL.NET |
| Relationship to Derek: | CHRISTAIN FRIEND. |
| Comments: | LOVE YOU DEREK AND WISH YOU THE BEST IN YOUR ENDEAVOUR. |
| Name: | Kassy |
| E-mail address: | kassidyj30@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | bf growing up |
| Comments: | Derek, I called your dad yesterday because like every year on June 5th I can't get you off my mind. It's really weird to think that it has already been 4 years since you've been gone. I try to imagine what life would be like if you were still here. What college would you go to, how many lives would you have saved, and who would be your girlfriend. When we were younger I always invisioned my future a certain way and that certain people would always be in my life. As I get older I realize how each of us have no idea what tomorrow holds and if there will even be a tomorrow. I started realizing this the day you were taken out of my life. Remember how we used to watch "my girl" and we thought we were like them. Ha, we even cut ourselves and became bloodbrothers, so then we would always we together no matter where we went. Well now I guess that story is kinda true, I loved you with all my little heart knew how to and then one day I was told you were never coming back. There are nights when I look up in the sky and talk to you and hope you can hear me, but I know you do. Wherever I go I still feel you and even though it's been 4 years, I can remember the days on the pond, roller hocky, the tramp, the many trees we climbed, and that mound of dirt we always played king of the hill on. I will never forget our childhood, it is something that has helped to mold me into the person I am today. People ask me why I'm so competitive, and I just laugh because I know growing up with you I had no choice. We were so much alike it's funny, and still to this day I have never met anyone else who understands the stupid stuff and the important stuff like you did. There's no one else who laughs, just to laugh, and loves life to it's fullest like us. Maybe that's why I miss you so much, it seems at times as if a light that was always shining was taken away. But I understand God, because who wouldn't want to be around you all the time. Any-way, I miss you and love you. Oh, I got a tatoo on my back for you it's a cross, and now there are wings on my lower back. Someday Derek, someday, I will see you again and we will play! |
| Name: | Keahi V. Renaud |
| E-mail address: | keahir@hawaii.edu |
| Relationship to Derek: | A Voice in the Wind |
| Comments: | Welina mai e na hoa makamae a Derek,
E huilkala mai no kuu niele ana o loko nei. Aka kulu mau hoi na waimaka palena ole i ike ana ke aloha a oukou e hoike aku ai. Ua haku, hana, a hoike ia oukou nei i he mau mele e pili ana ia Derek me kuu wahi manao wale haahaa. O Derek he kanaka maoli e alakai mua i kahi a oukou e hele ai me ka poomaikai a hui pu me ia. Iesu pu, Bruddah Keahi http://www2.hawaii.edu/~keahir/maniac.htm Thoughts of a Friend http://home.hawaii.rr.com/keahi/Within_Reach.htm http://home.hawaii.rr.com/keahi/FamilyVoice.htm (Howzit to the dearest friend/family of Derek Forgive me in that I don't mean to nosy into your affairs. It was just that reading all your thoughts brought endless tears from all the love each of you conveyed and continue to convey. Thus, I wrote and displayed a few of my thoughts dealing with those same kinds of feeling. Derek has become that trailblazer to a place that we will all one day be blessed to join him in. May Jesus by with you, Keahi) |
| Name: | James |
| Comments: | Holy cow... Nevada Union High School is CURSE!!!! Laura Wilcox, Cierra Davis, Patrick Greenan, Derek Snellings, Keith Wilson, and Lucas Roberts died last week.
I went to NU High School too. Please pray for me!!!! :( |
| Name: | Erin McConnell |
| E-mail address: | iambigmac@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | none |
| Comments: | I would just like to say how touching this guestbook is. After stumbling upon this website while searching for rollercoaster pictures to include in my teaching portfolio, I couldn't stop looking at the pictures of Derek and your beautiful family. I said a short prayer for ya'll after reading some of the most touching entries. It is obvious how much Derek was truly loved in his lifetime here on earth and in Heaven. Your emotions have touched me and I thank you for giving me a brief glimpse into such wonderful lives. I hope you don't feel like I have intruded. I hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday.
Sincerely, Erin McConnell |
| Name: | Cam Landon |
| E-mail address: | camlandon@yahoo.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Friend |
| Comments: | Hey Derek and family. I've been thinking about you a lot lately and find myself missing you more than ever. I know you are doing good because you are with the lord and I will meet you again some day. I just want you guys to know my prayers are with you every day and I care about you all very much. I consider myself lucky to be friends with Derek and I will always remember the time we spent together. I look foward to more good times in the future. I just want all of you to know that your son and brother has changed my life forever. |
| Name: | Cam Landon |
| E-mail address: | camlandon@yahoo.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Friend |
| Comments: | Hey Derek and family. I've been thinking about you a lot lately and find myself missing you more than ever. I know you are doing good because you are with the lord and I will meet you again some day. I just want you guys to know my prayers are with you every day and I care about you all very much. I consider myself lucky to be friends with Derek and I will always remember the time we spent together. I look foward to more good times in the future. I just want all of you to know that your son and brother has changed my life forever. |
| Name: | mario |
| Relationship to Derek: | friend and co-worker |
| Comments: | hey derek i put this together a few days ago check it out...
oh derek i still miss you just don't know what to do don't understand why you left so quickly still makes me sickly just thinkin about you oh i still miss you just don't know what to do everytime thinking about the days sometimes it seems like haze just thinkin about you oh i still miss you just dont know what to do all those good times laughin and playin is making me cryin and prayin just thinking about you oh derek why did it go down like this you and i sure know it shouldn't have happened like this but we dig deep inside to understand why and find you as a angel up in the sky still missing you makes me cry inside but i know you are by my side so i shime with a smile outside Love and miss but will NEVER FORGET YOU DEREK -mario |
| Name: | mario |
| Relationship to Derek: | friend and co-worker |
| Comments: | hey derek i put this together a few days ago check it out...
oh derek i still miss you just don't know what to do don't understand why you left so quickly still makes me sickly just thinkin about you oh i still miss you just don't know what to do everytime thinking about the days sometimes it seems like haze just thinkin about you oh i still miss you just dont know what to do all those good times laughin and playin is making me cryin and prayin just thinking about you oh derek why did it go down like this you and i sure know it shouldn't have happened like this but we dig deep inside to understand why and find you as a angel up in the sky still missing you makes me cry inside but i know you are by my side so i shime with a smile outside Love and miss but will NEVER FORGET YOU DEREK -mario |
| Name: | mario |
| Relationship to Derek: | friend and co-worker |
| Comments: | hey derek i put this together a few days ago check it out...
oh derek i still miss you just don't know what to do don't understand why you left so quickly still makes me sickly just thinkin about you oh i still miss you just don't know what to do everytime thinking about the days sometimes it seems like haze just thinkin about you oh i still miss you just dont know what to do all those good times laughin and playin is making me cryin and prayin just thinking about you oh derek why did it go down like this you and i sure know it shouldn't have happened like this but we dig deep inside to understand why and find you as a angel up in the sky still missing you makes me cry inside but i know you are by my side so i shime with a smile outside Love and miss but will NEVER FORGET YOU DEREK -mario |
| Name: | Tim Snellings |
| E-mail address: | tim@nettop.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Derek's Dad |
| Comments: | Oh Derek:
It is hard to imagine that today marks 3 years that you have moved from earth to heaven. I think of you often, miss you always but know, without a doubt, that because of our faith in Jesus Christ as our LORD and Savior, that we will rejoice together in heaven one day. I have great confidence in this, 'that he who began a good work in us, will carry it through to completion'...one day, in eternity. I have heard from many people today who are holding you closely in their hearts and thoughts. There are many who are reaching out to care for Deena, Sierra, Tyler and me today...so many who love and miss you. We love you so much and we'll see you soon...'every man dies, but not every man truly lives'...you've done both...Love you tons, Dad |
| Name: | Jake Thomas aka "mario" |
| E-mail address: | jake_thomas@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | friend and co-worker |
| Comments: | hey there luigi... just saying hi.. i am sure you are doing well.. don't get a sunburn in all this hot weather.
talk to you later derek -mario |
| Name: | Tim Snellings |
| E-mail address: | tim@nettop.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Derek's Dad |
| Comments: | Oh Derek:
How you are missed so very much. Not a day goes by that I don't thank God for the brief time we had together. It's kind of funny, but you find your way into my prayers all of the time as I ask our LORD to say 'hi' to you from me. Very recently, a close friend of mine died. His name is Don Bennett. He was in my Men's group that still meets every week. He was also very close to me during the time that you moved to heaven. As he was getting more sick and we had the realization that he too would soon be moving to heaven, he and I would talk about you. He promised me that when he got to heaven, he would look you up and let you know how much we all still love and miss you...I guess as time passes, it's only natural that more of us will make that transition and soon all of us who know Jesus as our personal savior will be in heaven together, celebrating eternity...I don't know about you...but I'm getting ready for a GREAT party...until then, Love, Dad |
| Name: | Emily Kuhn |
| E-mail address: | elvis1080@excite.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | friend, classmate and co-worker |
| Comments: | I guess this means that there is one less year until we can make fun of eachother again. I miss you. We all miss you. |
| Name: | Mom (Sue Prentice) |
| E-mail address: | sprentice@ncws.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | mom |
| Comments: | HI Baby, Everyday I think of you. Sometimes I cry, but Derek, often I smile. I dream of you a lot too. The other night I woke up --I frequently awake when I dream of you because it is either too exciting, or really upsetting--Nonetheless, my last dream was nice. You were with two buddies and you could not have smiled more brightly. It was so, so, so "you"! I screamed happily, "DEREK!" (Which woke me!) It was a reminder to me of how joyful you always were, and how happy you must be in Heaven. You know that I miss you more than my heart can take some times. I bought some Curious George bandaids--and new books which Samantha loves. She totally has your gusto for life! I wore one of those Curious George bandaids to my recent graduation--it was a C.G. reading a book...so, in essence, I took you with me. I take you everywhere...I'll be at the river soon. I planned to go last week and a rain storm prevented me. I pick up drift wood from the area near your last play time in the water. Geeze Derek, I know you had to go, but I still can't believe you left so soon! You were so delightful...I miss you so much! Thank you for the incredible treasure trove of memories...I recall them every day and smile. I am so proud of you... Hugs and kisses...and more hugs and kisses...I can't stop here...more later... PS. Sierra, Tyler, and Samantha are staying so close and loving, and I am so proud of them too. I know that you want that. We're going camping at Scott's Flat in a few days. Thanks for that last trip there. Great pictures! Great memories! I loved our talks and I remember you and Tyler getting up from the campfire to wrestle in the tent like puppies. I remember you letting Sami sleep in your tent and when she got afraid you were there comforting her...I wished I knew that would be one of the last times we got to play with you...but I guess I'm glad I didn't know...Baby, I will see you again...I hope God reveals all that I feel in my heart for you...it is more than words, way, way, way more.... |
| Name: | Kim |
| Relationship to Derek: | friend |
| Comments: | I just wanted to let you and your family know that I, and all your other friends, still think about you. I wasn't as close to you as many other people, but we had out moments. Once in a while, thoughts of you will just pop into my head, and I wonder what you would be doing if you were still here, instead of chilling up in heaven. I'm sure whatever you would be doing couldn't be half as cool as what you're up to right now, but not having you here makes the world a much duller place! We love you.
|
| Name: | Tamara Robbins |
| E-mail address: | tamrobbins@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | kayaking friend, co-worker |
| Comments: | Well, Derek, I must say that your impact seems to be as great in your absence as it was in life. When your dad asked for peoples reflections on a memorable moment with you I ended up writing something to the extent of, "There was never a moment with Derek that WASN'T memorable". You carried such an energy of grace and goodness that you affected everyone around you, in any situation. You were a rare bird here on earth, and I suppose that the gift of having been fortunate enough to share your company comes with the burden of an unusually powerful sense of loss at your absence.
In life most of us realize that, as with darkness and light, most of our best experiences tend to have some relationship to our worst. The whitewater world is this way - those who develop a passion for rivers find in them a level of soul connection, of joy, of commitment and reward that is unlike any other. With time it becomes apparent that the power of the river is exceptional not only for its beauty but for its lack of concern. The immense potential for aliveness is balanced by the ever present potential for death. I'm getting a bit off track - the point of this is that, as you know, I have known many who have lost their lives in rivers. somewhere around 20, last I counted. and while focused reflection brings saddness at their losses, the loss I feel at your absence is with me almost all the time. I thank God for allowing me to know you, I only wish he'd let you stick around a bit longer. Perhaps he needed to start your angel training in preparation for the 11th of September... Guess that's enough for now, though I feel I want to sit and write you for hours, just because it feels so good to have the sense of communication with you. I know you hear my prayers as well, but you know me - much better at writing :-) I love you, Derek, and so look forward to seeing you again. Thank you for your laughter, your teasing, your spirit, and your example. Tamara |
| Name: | michael maahs |
| E-mail address: | maahs28@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | friendvia twin cities church |
| Comments: | i have been removed fromthe twin cites church and the grass valley scene from about 3 years now. i was on the internet this afternoon at work and i was just doing some random name searches, i typed in a persons name that i new and it pulled up the article in The Union about Derek. i new Derke for the 18 months that i spent in grass valley. i new him to be a very normal jr. high boy. in someways Derek reminded me of myself when i was younger, and in otherways he was more than i could have been. there were many times he and i argued over who was better the 49ers or the Cowboys. Young or Aikman. but he and i always had a mutual respect for each other. because we had one thing in common that no one could ever take away. it makes us all sad to hear of tragedy in any form effecting our friends. i just wish to send my condolences, empathy, and my prayers to Tim, Deena, Sierra, and Tyler. and to derek i will see you again bother.
michael maahs |
| Name: | Tim Snellings |
| E-mail address: | tim@nettop.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Derek's Dad |
| Comments: | Hey there my boy. Just spending some time thinking about
you, loving you in my heart and missing you tons. I need to remind myself that you are in a much better place, but life is just not the same without your incredible 'zest for life' in our home. Deena, Sierra, Tyler and I are all missing you SO MUCH. I know that God is working still through your life in this world and that continues to give me Xtreme Hope. Lovin' you always, Dad |
| Name: | Debbie Graham |
| E-mail address: | debracoxgraham@yahoo.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | teacher |
| Comments: | Hi Derek,
I just wanted to touch-in and let you know how grateful I am to have spent some time with you. And to your family: Thanks so much for letting me be blessed by Derek and by all of you. I know how special Derek will always be, and I carry the blessing of memory. I just couldn't let the day pass without letting all of you know I will always remember, and especially today. I was truly "touched by an angel." Who needs the t.v. show?! Love and prayers, Debbie |
| Name: | Emily Kuhn |
| E-mail address: | elvis1080@excite.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | friend, classmate, co-worker |
| Comments: | Well bud, it's been a year already.... It's been a long time since we talked, we'll have a lot to cover when we see eachother again. I just want you to know that I (everyone) really miss you and can't wait to see you! Hope you're showing everyone up there how to have a good time "Derek style". (Try not to be too rough on them cowboy!)
I miss you a lot, Em |
| Name: | Tim Snellings |
| E-mail address: | tim@nettop.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Derek's Dad |
| Comments: | Hey buddy:
Just thinkin' about you on this June 5th, 2001. It was a year ago today that you 'moved' from earth to heaven, as it you had an appointment with our LORD. Just like you came in to this world (early), so you left it (in my opinion). However, as I grow to learn more of how AWESOME God is, I know that HIS plan is perfect...this includes HIS timing as well. It's just different than mine, especially in this case. Today, Deena, Tyler, Sierra (in Europe), Katie and I will celebrate you. We will watch Derek videos, read our Bibles and pray (that we'll keep the eternal perspective of your move)and visit one of your favorite places. We miss you SO MUCH!!! I'm so glad you made your short stop in OUR world and that we could share our lives together. You are so precious to me (us). 'Every man dies, but not every man truly lives.' We'll see you soon, in heaven, with our LORD. I know that you'll have LOTS of cool things to show us when we get there :-) See you buddy, Love Dad (and Deena, Sierra and Tyler too) |
| Name: | Sierra |
| E-mail address: | sierrasnellings@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Sister |
| Comments: | Dear Derek, Hey! I'm just sitting here in a computer cafe in Amsterdam thinking about you. It will be
one year since you left us this coming Tuesday. I've been sitting here for a few hours just looking at all the great photos of you (while crying to myself the whole time). Gosh I really miss you brother. I just felt like writing it down. I know you're happy and safe and probably kayaking or doing something wild. I bet Jesus couldn't wait to hang out with you and that is why you're up there so early. Too bad for me (us all). I can't wait to see you agian and I know I will. We'll do lunch, OK? Love, Sierra |
| Name: | Ryan |
| Relationship to Derek: | Friend/Classmate |
| Comments: | Derek: I was inspired by you. It took guts to go to the
extremes you did. I'll miss you man. -Ryan |
| Name: | katie zealear |
| E-mail address: | zealear@jps.net |
| Relationship to Derek: | girlfriend |
| Comments: | snellings family,
just wanted to drop you a note and let you know you are in my prayers and thoughts. love always, katie |
| Name: | Laura Ryan |
| E-mail address: | hkitty@jps.net |
| Relationship to Derek: | co-worker/friend/classmate |
| Comments: | It has almost been 9 monthes, since that tragic day in
June, you've made us all shed tears, but it's helped to wash away our fears. Your strength, courage, and will power shows everone that God has a plan for all of us and nomatter how old we are he isn't going to judge us. Our love for the lord is the most powerful and precious thing that we have. I love you Derek and again I'll say I'll see ya soon. -Love Laura |
| Name: | Emily Kuhn |
| E-mail address: | elvis1080@excite.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | friend/classmate/co-worker |
| Comments: | It's almost been seven months, but it stills hurts as if it
were yesterday. I just want you to know that I haven't forgotten about you, no one has, and they never will. The memories of you bring joy to my face in the hope that someday there will be more to come. We've all moved on, but a little of us still lingers with your memories. I miss ya bud, we all do |
| Name: | John Woods |
| E-mail address: | John@woods138.fsnet.co.uk |
| Relationship to Derek: | none |
| Comments: | hey guys,
just wandered across your site by accident and wanted to say I found it inspirational. Thankyou for sharing your love for your son and your love for our Lord Jesus. hello from all the guys at Proclaimers Christian College at Drayton, Norwich, England, UK. God bless you all, my prayers are with you John |
| Name: | Austin Robert Palmer |
| Relationship to Derek: | cousin |
| Comments: | I MISS YOU DEREK VERY MUCH
AND I REALLY MISS YOU BUT I WILL SEE YOU SOMETIME IN HEAVEN THATS ALL I WNAT TO THINK OF |
| Name: | katie and tyler | ||||
| E-mail address: | zealear@jps.net | ||||
| Relationship to Derek: | girlfriend and brother | ||||
| Comments: |
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| Name: | harriet |
| E-mail address: | none |
| Relationship to Derek: | friend |
| Name: | Teresa Schuh |
| Relationship to Derek: | One of Derek's Loving Mothers |
| Comments: | Dear Derek,
Where do I begin? You were two years old.We were at church. Jim said to me, "Keep Nicholas away from that kid, he's got a needle and he's poking everyone with it!". Well, I loved you from the first second I met you. Your woody- woodpecker laugh, winning smile, postitive can-do-attitude, and most importantly your love and respect for your awesome God. We did have so much fun!! You and Nick spitting spit wads at cars and laughing all the way to Napa.You and Nick riding the go-cart through the mud and calling yourselves the mud-buddies. There you go through the vineyard- Nick driving and you holding the fishing pole and bb gun standing up on the back of the go-cart! You were gone the whole day!! We always had spaghetti when you came to our house-you said you really liked it. So many wonderful memories - I will cherish them forever. You have blessed our lives and we are better for having known you. You have gone the the other side and it is beautiful. I know you are happy. I take comfort in knowing I will see you again soon. You'll be there to meet me - swinging from a tree? I WILL be there. You said in your self-portrait that you wanted to save a life. Well, I know you saved many more. Perhaps 100 lives - only the Lord knows . There are many more who now know about the saving grace of our Jesus because of you. They now know about forgiveness of sins and the promise of eternal life. I praise God for your life and I rejoice with the angels. I give praise to God for you - His beautiful work of art. You are His masterpiece. I love you Big D Teresa |
| Name: | jake |
| E-mail address: | jake_thomas@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | co-worker at papa murphy's |
| Comments: | Hey derek-
your dad gave jason that hat you were going to give to me. It is awesome.. i didn't know indianapolis won the NCAA final four championship game. You wrote "To 'Mario' From Derek!" I really appreciate the gift you gave me! |
| Name: | jake thomas |
| E-mail address: | jake_thomas@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | co-worker at papa murphys |
| Comments: | I miss you a lot Derek everyone does. You made us all happy
when we were sad. you made us laugh a lot. you are awesome derek. I will always remember that one day we played darts in your garage after school and all that other stuff. see ya later |
| Name: | Kim Perches |
| E-mail address: | Tweedldumb@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | campus life |
| Comments: | I remember about 2 christmas's ago at Campus life (youth
Group) Jim made up a new game and he needed 6 people 3 girls and 3 boys and the 6 people had to pair up so so there was 3 boy girl teams well me and Derek were parteners and we thought it'd be some sports game then Anita mills brings up sheets and lays them down on the floor and the she grabs a paper bag and starts pulling tubes of icing out of the bag. The game turned out to be to design your parteners face like a ginger break cookie. When it came to Derek's turn to put icing on my face he went all out and used a whole tune of blue icing. He then poured about 1/2 a bottle of colored sprinkles I did look like a ginder bread girl. Of course we won and form that day on Derek called me Smurf. That is one of my favorite memorys of him and I'll always remember him as living live to it's foolest and taking every oppertunity to do so. |
| Name: | Tim Snellings |
| E-mail address: | tim@nettop.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Dad |
| Comments: | Hi Derek:
You came into this world in a hurry at 10:10 am 17 years ago today, as if you realized you only had a short time to get everything done that God had called you to do. As we celebrate your 17th birthday today, we know that you are in an awesome place, heaven, with our Lord. However, our hearts miss you so incredibly much. There are many of us who will gather today, in your honor. As you would wish, we will have some FUN, on your behalf. We'll be watching some videos of you and telling 'Derek' stories. We'll laugh and we'll cry; yet in all of it, we will be thankful to have shared our lives with you. I love you so much. I can't wait to see you in heaven. I am encouraged, as the Bible says, "with the Lord, a day is as a thousand years and a thousand years is as a day." So, I figure, from the eternal perspective, I'll see you in a few minutes. As we used to say to each other with Scottish accents, which we also got from the movie "Braveheart", I'm saying to you now and I can hear your words as well: Dad: "I love ya…" Derek: "…always have…" Dad: "…always will" See you in a few minutes. Happy 17th. Love, Dad |
| Name: | Dalyne McCoy |
| E-mail address: | dalynemc@yahoo.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | friend |
| Comments: | I have known Derek for about a year know; he was a very outgoing person;know matter what he was
doing he could brighten the room up as soon as he walked in. With Derek living down the street from me it was often that I would see him drive by, I would probably be practicing cheerleading with one of my friends, and Derek would drive by and wave and say Good luck girls. When I would see him on campus he would always ask how I was doing. My last memory of Derek was when I was on my front lawn with my friend Abrea Harritt we were practicing for our dance class at N.U. Derek drove by and waved and said have girls see ya later. well I have to go but I will pray. |
| Name: | Tony and Gina Wasley |
| E-mail address: | loproach@jps.net |
| Relationship to Derek: | Deena's cousin |
| Comments: | This is an amazing tribute to Derek. We get a feel for how
he lived life and the love you share for him. You are in out thoughts daily. Love, Tony and Gina |
| Name: | Austin P. |
| Relationship to Derek: | Cousin and friend |
| Comments: | I like Derek because he was my favoritest cousin that was a
big teenager. He was always nice to me. He played with me on Nintendo and the 1080 game with me. He tickled me and gave me piggy-back rides. I will always love him. When dad told me that Derek died, I cried a lot. I am missing him a lot now that he is in heaven. Love, Austin |
| Name: | Aleesa Palmer |
| Relationship to Derek: | Cousin |
| Comments: | The thing I remember most about Derek is how loving and
caring and FUNNY he is. I like the way he did silly dances and acted goofy sometimes. He always made us laugh. I remember most when he would play the snowboarding game on Nintendo and he would be really good at it. I was really sad at first when he died, but now I know that he is happy and safe and making others laugh in heaven. I know that Jesus is with him and taking care of him until Deen-deen and Uncle Tim can see him again. And Tyler and Sierra. I am glad to know he in a really, really good place now. Love, Aleesa. |
| Name: | Laura Ryan |
| Relationship to Derek: | co-worker/classmate |
| Comments: | Derek left me so many memories in the short amount of time
that I knew him, I could never believe that one human being could be so honest and true to everyone around him. Derek had a kind and thoughtful heart he was always willing to help somebody else out...he went the extra mile for everyone. He is the best. Derek everyone loves you and I will see you soon. -Laura |
| Name: | Peggy Langle |
| E-mail address: | plangle@co.santa-barbara.ca.us |
| Relationship to Derek: | Santa Barbara County Environmental Health Director |
| Comments: | Tim, I have looked through the website over the last few days, and am proud to know you as another
Environmental Health Director and as a human being. Your devotion to your son, by means of the establishment of this website as a memorial to Derek, is outstanding. It gives me much insight in to the loss of loved ones, and the touching way you have artfully displayed his life to share with others is overwhelming. My prayers are with you and your family. Take care. Peggy Langle |
| Name: | mom |
| E-mail address: | none |
| Relationship to Derek: | mom (Sue Prentice) |
| Comments: | Love......... |
| Name: | Melinda (formerly Prentice) Hudson |
| E-mail address: | gemini53170@yahoo.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | former aunt |
| Comments: | My heart goes out to the family at this tragic time.
Derek was a very fortunate young man to have a family who loved him so much...enough to have the courage to place a legacy to him on the Internet. I am grateful for this because, even though I am no longer a direct member of the family, I knew and loved Derek, and regret not being able to take part in the ceremonies to celebrate his life and mourn his passing. I know your faith in God will see you through this, and only time will ease the pain. Nothing will ever take the pain away. I hope that knowing I care helps a little. Melinda |
| Name: | jake |
| E-mail address: | jake_thomas |
| Relationship to Derek: | co-worker/friend |
| Comments: | derek- I miss you man. I still am keeping the name "mario"
you gave me. I am keeping all the nicknames going at work. Your pizza isn't bad at all I kind of liked it. Work i tell ya isn't the same without you around. everytime the song "how bizarre" comes on i think of you. Everyone calls me "mario" and it makes me think of you. Well derek I will see you later, take it easy! |
| Name: | Kraig Mott |
| E-mail address: | creatin225@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | distant acquaintance |
| Comments: | I'm sorry for the loss of a loved one. I recently lost my grandpa to cancer. I've been friends with the Jerry
Chevassus family for over 2 years now and I was at there home the night they recieved the phone call from you family about the death. I'll pray for you family and remember, "If you have good memories, you are never compleately alone"...Kraig |
| Name: | Ryan Wells |
| E-mail address: | jurai23@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | met him through kayaking |
| Comments: | Derek, I probably only met you two or three times max,
usually around Wolf Creek Wilderness. You were along on my first trip down whitewater. I remember you helped me out a lot on that trip, especially when I got out of the boat mid- river. I remember you as being very energetic and totally stoked about kayaking. You seemed to want to pass it on too. You were happy to be out and kayaking with us even though it could not have been more than class II water. You never seemed to be there when I dropped by the store, but I'd been thinking about getting you number and calling you to go paddling sometime. You made a big impact on me even though I never knew you off the water. Thanks for the tips and advice you gave me that first day. I'll never stop kayaking. See you around. Ryan |
| Name: | Emily Kuhn |
| E-mail address: | elvis1080@excite.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | friend/classmate/co-worker |
| Comments: | Derek always sticks out in a person's mind after meeting
him. With his charasmatic personality we met in speech and debate class by him being him, and me making fun of him for it. We became friends instently. After he found out that me and some other kids in the class all worked at Papa Murphy's he wouldn't stop bothering me about getting him a job at the store. I broke down and put in a few good words about him, soon after I was training him. He instantly brought his intertaining personality to the store causing everyone to love him. Nomatter what he did, I could only laugh. For example, Derek decided to be cute and funny so he got the wet floor sign and was singing into my ear with it while he was dancing for me while I was on the phone with a customer I couldn't stop laughing, either could the customer. All of us that worked with him and had speech class with him had a bond that no one else will ever know. |
| Name: | kelsie greer |
| E-mail address: | kgreer4@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | brothers friend |
| Name: | Suzanne Morrow |
| E-mail address: | suzanne@morrowmarketing.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | member of church family |
| Comments: | Susan, Dina and Tim, your family is an inspiration to all.
Your faith and strength in the Lord at such a difficult time is an example to all of us, an example of how to trust in God at the most difficult times. Thank you for that. Our family prays for yours, and we, too, look forward to seeing Derek again. |
| Name: | Kassidy Johnson |
| E-mail address: | kassidyj30@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Best friend growing up |
| Comments: | Derek,
Wow, remember how much I was in love with you from the first time I met you, which was 3rd. grade for you. We did everything together, and you of course know what I mean by everything. When I look back at growing up, it wouldn't have been complete without you. You and R.J. were my best friends, and I though you two would always be. Yeh, and there were the time when we would hate girls, because we couldn't understand why they were so dumb, and why they didn't like to role around in the dirt. For 5 years, you were the biggest part of my life, and that was dew to the fact that I didn't have any girl friends, and you were the only person I could talk too. From the age of 9, you were my best friend, my only friend besides the boys in the neighborhood. Derek, I'm sorry for not staying close with you when we got to high school. Yeh, we would always say "Hi" and sometimes even joke about the good old days, but we never took time out of our busy lives to do more than just laugh about the past. Maybe we were stuck in the past, and insted of making more memories, we stoped. So I'm SORRY. Even though you are gone now, you are still here, always in my heart, always my best fried, always my first love, and always my prince. Tonight Katie and I went swimming in the river with Sierra and Neil, it was so fun. By the way, you picked a great gal, I guess you always have had good taste. I'm so happy that you and Katie got to spend the last year and a half together, she's so sweet. Tonight, all I have done was think about you, as we dropped flowers into the water it made me smile, becasue we were giving them to you. No wonder why you love the water so much, not only is it so beautiful, but yet so strong and powerfull. Derek, you have no idea how much I miss you, and how I will continue to untill the day we meet again in Heaven. I just want you to know that because you were the one I was always trying to beat in basketball, and everything we ever did was a compotition, I from now on dedicate every (good) basketball game to you. So just know I'm playing for you, and will never foget all the times we played out side and in the shop, and the scars I will always from you. Derek, I couldn't have asked for a better friend growing up, I guess the Lord just truely blessed me by having a best friend like you. Derek, I'll love you forever and a day. Kassy |
| Name: | Kasey L. Jones |
| E-mail address: | jones_kasey@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Father's Co-worker |
| Comments: | I never met you, Derek, in fact, I am quite new to the area. I work with yours father, Tim Snellings in
the Hazardous Materials Division for the County. It will never cease to amaze me how this community came together in such strength and numbers to support your incredible family through all of this. I know that you lived a wonderful life, and to have touched soo many people in this community is proof of your true goodness and charm. I consider you and his family to be quite lucky to have soo many caring people in your lives...thank you Derek for opening my eyes to love that this community shares for one another. With love from an unknown friend, Kasey Jones |
| Name: | Charisse |
| Relationship to Derek: | friend |
| Comments: | i will miss you. i will miss your smile and your laugh. The way you can make anyone laugh at any time. Talking with you. We will see each other again in the future. Have fun riding the rapids in heaven!!
Love you Charisse |
| Name: | Charisse Jones |
| E-mail address: | cj_hottie_cali@yahoo.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | friend |
| Comments: | Derek~
I know that we had fun together over the years. But right now you are in a better place. I bet you are kayaking all the rivers in heaven!! |
| Name: | Cody |
| E-mail address: | ccodyy@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | know him through Tyler |
| Comments: | I first met Derek when I went over to their house to work
on a school project with Tyler. That night I ended up having dinner with the Snellings. That night i got to know the whole family a little better through all of their jokes, which Derek made the most of them. Tim told us that there are only four words in the English language that end in "dous",then he asked us if we knew what they were... hazardous, and three other words i don't remeber. Derek took a guess and (without thinking) said "industrious". We all laughed along with him as he realized the stupid mistake he had just made. Throughout the rest of the night, we (the Snellings and I) continued to criticise him, just joking of course. And being the type of kid he waws, Derek would make jokes with us too. I didn't know Derek very well, but I will always remember him as the funny guy he was. I regret not getting to know Derek better, but someday I will meet him and get to know him. Until that day comes I will miss him dearly and pray for his family and friends. ~I can't wait to meet him~ |
| Name: | kathy davidson |
| E-mail address: | kdavidson@jps.net |
| Relationship to Derek: | I work at Derek's orthodontist |
| Comments: | Derek was one of my favorite patients. He always had a
smile and was very kind. I could always joke with him and he would always have a good response. He will be missed very much by all of us at the office. We will be praying for all his family and friends. love, kathy |
| Name: | matt sowell |
| E-mail address: | sowell@gv.net |
| Relationship to Derek: | one of his closest friends |
| Comments: | my freshman and sophomore year I went to bear river, and
this year, being my junior year I transfered to NU. Derek was one of the first friends I made, and not long after, we paintballed together, and partied some. I have so many memories of him, and I'll just share one particular memory that took place just days before the accident. We sat in the library and picked out books such as gay rights and dumb embarrasing stuff like that and put them in peoples bags when they weren't looking. Not long after that they would leave and the alarm would go off, making them empty their backpacks in front of everyone and everyone laughing at them for having that book. Derek and I would have such great laughs about that, like we always did. Derek, I will miss you so much. You were such a great friend, a true friend. I can't hold back the tears when I think about how such a wonderful kid could be taken from us. Me and everyone will always love and remember you. Your in a better place now, and soon well party again. I love you bro. |
| Name: | Krissa Campbell |
| E-mail address: | krissa9@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | on Katie's Soccer Teams, met Derek through Katie. |
| Comments: | I remember the very first time I met Derek, I could tell he was someone very sepcial. He had a smile
that radiated and caught your attention. Katie introduced me to Derek at a soccer game which he came to almost a year ago out in Roseville. From the second I met him he started joking around with me, just being a goof. After the soccer game was over we went to Cafe Bernardo in Roseville, it was myself, Derek and the Zealear's. The entire time we waited for our food, I just remember that my cheeks and belly were aching because I had been laughing so hard at Derek and his continually personality. While we were waiting for our food, which by the way took quite a while, we were playing a game. We were unsing pennies and trying to score goals inbetween each others fingers, and he got so into it. It was funny he was just joking around, and then you would beat him, and he would jokingly act like he was upset and be right back after you, and you could be sure he would definately win that next game. I saw Derek on several other occasions which he came with Katie too, and he could continually make me happy and laugh. We would just joke around, kinda insulting each other but just joking. Telling each other man you stink, did you shower, just lame stuff like that, but we did it out of humor, and it was fun. Your son was a very special person. He had many talents and abilities that made him very disticnt from other people. Just in the few incidents which I met Derek, he impacted my life. He was always so happy and so upbeat and that is what I admired about him. I know Derek has moved onto a better place, and he is waiting for all of us to come and join him. Don't think of him as being dead, he has gone away, to a place unknwon to us. I know for a fact that our Heavenly Father does things for a reason, and these reasons are sometimes left unknown, but I want you to know that I know Derek returned home to live with his Heavenly Father and brother Jesus Christ. He will always be looking over your family, and you will never be alone. Sincerely, Krissa N. Campbell |
| Name: | Liberty Herring, age 11 |
| E-mail address: | bherring@gv.net |
| Relationship to Derek: | Played tag at Wolf Creek Wilderness |
| Comments: | For Derek
He always was the one to be, the first to get to the highest tree He never let you down, his face never showed the slightest frown He always saw the bright side of life, fear to him was a stone cold knife Happiness was the water and sky, He always was the last to lie Anyone with enough sense, had him mend the white picket fence The day he died was the saddest day, everyone really must say Adventure was his middle name, until it ended the fun and game The day he died was the saddest day, everyone really must say |
| Name: | Don & Vicki Sullivan & Dan McDonall |
| E-mail address: | sullivanfam@jps.net |
| Relationship to Derek: | We knew his parents |
| Comments: | Dear Family of Derek, You may or may not remember us from
Calvary Chapel Grass Valley. We all went to there together up on Alta Street. We just want to let you know that your dear family have been in our constant prayers and thoughts this past week. Tim, of all the things that I remember about you, your faith in God, and your ability to trust Him, and find joy is the midst of painful trials stands out the most. I know this must truly be your greatest trial ever. I also know that God will meet you and your family with a peace and grace that will match your pain and see you through this time. There are simply no words that can comfort your aching hearts. Only our Lord Jesus can minister at times like these. He alone can reach you when no human word or deed can. Time truly is a healer. One of my favorite promises from God is found in Job 19:25, "For I know that my remeemer lives, and that in the end He will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet with my eyes I will see God. I myself will see him with my own eyes, I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!" I know that you know that your seperation from your precious son is only temporary. Soon, very soon, you will stand beside him, and for eternity you will praise our Heavenly Father together forever! May God richly bless you and your family. Not only are you receiving prayer from the body of Christ, but remember, our Jesus lives to make intercession for us. When not another soul in the world knows how to pray for us, He knows, and He prays. All Our Love In Christ, Don, Vicki, Michael, Sara & Matthew Sullivan & Dan McDonall |
| Name: | mandy prentice |
| E-mail address: | sunflower53177@yahoo.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | family |
| Comments: | HEY BABY D,I SAY BABY BECAUSE THATS WHAT HE WAS THE LAST
TIME I SAW HIM,AND WILL BE FOREVER. I NEVER GOT A CHANCE TO KNOW DEREK LIKE I SHOULD HAVE BUT FROM WHAT I CAN TELL HE WAS A WONDERFUL PERSON.WE HADN'T SEEN EACH OTHER IN YEARS AND I JUST GOT THE NEWS TODAY THAT HE HAD PASSED IT HURT ME TO KNOW ONE OF MY IMMEDIATE FAMILY MEMBERS WAS GONE.I WISH I COULD HAVE BEEN AROUND HIM LONGER AND GOT TO KNOW HIM BETTER,EVEN THOUGH IM OLDER WITH CHILDREN OF MY OWN MAYBE HE COULD HAVE HELPED ME MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN MY LIFE FOR THE BETTER LIKE HES MADE A DIFFERENCE IN SO MANY OF THE PEOPLE HE KNEW. I LOVE YOU LIL'CUZ I WILL MISS YOU AND I WILL PRAY EVERY NIGHT THAT YOU KNOW I WROTE AND KNOW I CARED. AGAIN I LOVE YOU. BYE......LOVE MANDY |
| Name: | Amy Summers |
| E-mail address: | anomie27@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | a friend |
| Comments: | Derek and I were not all that close I guess you could call
us just aquantances, We never really became good friends but I know alot about him. I never him for 4 years before he passed away, and I was crushed to hear the news. The only thing I could think about was why did it have to happen to such a sweet, kind, caring person like Derek??? He really meant alot to alot of people, he changed alot of lives. Derek moved alot of people with just being himself. I know that Derek will always live in all of our hearts... I hope everyone stays strong and sticks together. I miss you Derek!!! |
| Name: | Nichole Planchon |
| E-mail address: | nikkijeanice@yahoo.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Friend |
| Comments: | I would just like to say that I was at the memorial service
on Friday and it was beautiful. It helped me realize how much of an outgoing and devoted guy Derek was. I learned new stuff about him that I didnt know before. I didnt know Derek that well but I knew him enough to be touched by his accident. The one thing Ill remember most about him is his smile. I can remember everytime I saw Derek he always had a big bright smile upon his face. I cant remember a time I saw him and he didnt, he truly had a spirit lifting smile and Ill always remember him for that. I wish the best to you, his family and friends. With Love, Nichole |
| Name: | Jamee Pau |
| Relationship to Derek: | Friend |
| Comments: |
"one man gives freely, yet gains nothing more than the pear pleasure of helping another." Derek will always be in my heart and his words will follow me to where ever life might take me! |
| Name: | Amber Arfsten |
| Relationship to Derek: | Lifetime Family Friend |
| Comments: | I have known Derek my entire life, but I never relized how
amazing he lived his live. He lived on hope and shined with faith. From the troubles of my teenage years I beleave Derek's death saved my life. And for that I ow everything I have to Tim, Sue, Seirra, and Tyler. After my 13th birthday I moved to Napa with my mom. There I found myself giving into the preasures which teenagers find there selves trying to avoid. I lost part of myself and gained an unwanted, and fearful pregnencey. After I misscarried I began a long year of depression, fear, and suicide atempts. On Tuesday morning of last week I heared the unbelivible news that Derek moved on to heaven. I thought all about the Derek I remembered and through many days of non-stop thinking about my faith and the way Derek lived his life, I've come to the conclusion that I belive Derek lived the life of an angel. He has touched the lives of many people and has forever changed my life. Sue and Tim, you have without a dougt raised the most wonderful children I have met. |
| Name: | Caren Gozzi-Bevins |
| E-mail address: | ehcaren@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Tim Snellings |
| Comments: | Tim and Deena, thank you for restoring my faith in love for
those who have left the physical world. Tim, I have only known you professionally, but your love, devotion and consideration of self, others and our Lord have truely been inspirational. I appreciate your goodbye celebration this last friday and wish I could have spoken with you, however circumstances did not allow me to make me way through the crowd. I have been to many memorial services, but this one was so full of love, reality and fulfillment that I am truely inspired. My firm belief is that if I leave this world, I would want others to remember fondly of me and celebrate my life, not mourn my loss. God bless all of you, and I hope your pain does not overcome your days - that your rejoyce in celebrating Derek's presence with the Lord provides you with peace. Your fond servant - Caren |
| Name: | Julie |
| E-mail address: | jewels843@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | friend |
| Comments: | Derek- When I first started talking to you in anatomy this year I knew I was in for a good time. Going to
that class became the highlight of my day. Listening to you brought me so much laughter and happiness. You, Jefferson, and Brent frustrated me so much with your gibberish and entertained me with the constant tournaments from falldown to the PFL. I don't know how i learned to put up with all your constant teasing, but there was just this little thing about you that I could never get upset with. It never failed though that if you thought you had hurt my feelings you would always make sure that I knew you didn't mean it, and would shower me with compliments and your very creative pick up lines :). You definately had the potential of a ladies man :). All the "be mean to Julie days" and my one "be nice to Julie day" (thank you) hold so many memories in my heart. There are so many memories of you that I have from the last year that it would take hours for me to share them all. You were such a little charmer and you had me attached to your joyful, compassionate, fun loving personality in no time. On the days that i did not see you in class, or joke around with you on campus always seemed so boring. It was amazing how much you added to my day and the days of others all around you. You touched many lives and held a special gift to ease the pain of others. I know you are in a better place right now and I just hope that you can look down and see how much everyone loves you and misses you...including me. You were, and always will be, a very special person in my life and I will always remember our strange sixth period experiences that we had together. Love, Julie |
| Name: | Lisa Miglietta |
| E-mail address: | lisam@gv.net |
| Relationship to Derek: | remote |
| Comments: | Derek:
I think I may have met you once or twice. I was a friend of your mother's. She and I lost touch over the last few years, yet through real estate I have seen your dad on several occasions. He would not know me, but he is a good guy and I have paid attention. I actually knew your mother better, and if I know one thing about her, it is that she is a loving mother right down to her soul. She was always so proud of her own off-spring, yet also willing to embrace the other children in her extended family that needed stability. She is, in many ways, a remarkable woman. She is so very, very proud of you - and I know you are proud of her. As far as your brother, Tyler, goes - MAN - you are a lucky soul. He is so strong and will prove to be great inspiration to everyone throughout his life here on earth. And, as you continue to inspire those in the life you now embrace, you can be proud of what he is doing for you, here where the rest of us think about you, even if we didn't actually know you. You certainly were surely proud to see how many people came to honor you yesterday. Go forward - although you will surely be missed, YOU HAVE MUCH TO OFFER. Be well - even for those that never touched your life, you will be forever in our hearts. Peace is with you. Lisa, Chelsea & Halley Miglietta |
| Name: | brandy |
| E-mail address: | bgb9@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | friend |
| Comments: | I remember the first time I saw Derek, I knew there was
something special about him. I got to know hin threw seeing him in math everyday then one day he wasn't there and later I saw him walking down the hall with crutches. I felt bad for him because our math class was all the way up in F-wing and that is a lot of stairs to climb even if your not on cruthces. After he left my math class I realized he was in the nexus class next to mine so I went over and talked to him and asked him what happened and he told me he broke his knee and had to have a cast for a while and from that day on I called him "gimpy" because he couldn't make it up the stairs to class. After that we made a lot of fun of each other he finally got me back good when I cut all my hair off and he thought it would be funny yo call me "butch" I guess he thought it made me manly or something. I rarely saw Derek around school this past year but when I did we always exchanged a smile and laughed at each other. I will always miss my gimpy and I will always keep him in my heart. |
| Name: | Alicia Kirby |
| E-mail address: | princess_aliciak@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | friend |
| Comments: | I went to church camp (snow) with Deena, and she was our
cabin leader, and one night we were all talking and we all shared the secret or the special things that we have or do with our parents and Deena told us that Her and derek do a little kiss on each cheeck before bed and I still remeber that. He saw me in the halls at NU and one day I was having a hard time at home and at school and Derek said " Now Alicia tell your freind Derrik what is bothering you COME ON TELL ME!!," and I did and we just stood by our lockers laughing, he had a good sense of therapy which was laughter He was an amazing kid with endless possibilities and sometimes when I cry or even slighty grieve over the loss of Derek I cant help but tell myself how silly I am acting, "Think about how the family feels Alicia Think of his parents and brother and sister" I cant say sorry . I cant say anything that will ever take away what you must be feeling as a family in whole. He is in a even MORE beeautiful place where everyone is trying so hard to get to, he will never suffer or struggle again. He dided too young and I know that he is peaceful and I hope that you the Snellings can find that reat and peace in your hearts as he is feeling now. I love you guys (and Deena if you cant get up to Vaccum, or pack a lunch for tyler or even put on your own makeup I will be there in 10 minutes flat, Anything Deena let me know.) I am so ready to help and I am not doing this out of the loss or the grief but out of the hope that the Sneelings can find a peace after the mourn and then one day realize that God took him for a specail purpose that nobody can explain. my heart my prayers, and my love goes out to you all and I hope that you do find a restful closure. Because I know that your angels are looking out for you. Love Alicia |
| Name: | Daniel Waters |
| E-mail address: | viperfetish@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | classmate |
| Comments: | I was a classmate of Derek's last year as well as this
year. This year I had Speech/Debait with Derek, and the last assignment I did in that class was the "humorous debait" with Derek. While most people in the class actually debaited an issue, Derek and I exchanged "yo-mama" jokes for the class. Derek got the most laughs. It was a delight to work with Derek because he was very smart, and was able to articulate himself well. Since our speech teacher, Mr. Brown wanted us to use puns in that class, many times Derek, Heath and I would trade puns back and fourth about someone's speech. We had fun, and I am happy to say that I have absolutely no negative memories of Derek. Derek, these are for you: I'm trying to think of some puns, but I'm up a creek without a paddle. I guess I'm paddling upstream. Maybe I have "extreme" sadness but I suppose we're all in the same boat. These puns should flow pretty soon I hope I'm not rocking the boat here but I'm in a river of sadness. I hope I'm not babbling (that one was a stretch) I have a boatload to say here, but my head is swimming. Let me tell you, Derek, there wasn't a dry eye from shore to shore. goodbye my friend Now if you'll excuse me, my face is leaking. Dan Waters |
| Name: | Alex |
| E-mail address: | Manuel |
| Relationship to Derek: | HI.........................once |
| Comments: | I didn't really know Derek, but I do know what it's like to
a family. I too lost someone........ a cousin who was as close to me as my own brothers. It was hard but my we just prayed the best for him in heaven and that he remembers us always and also let him know that he will always be in our hearts. I know that its tough to get through and I just want Tyler as a friend to know that I'm always going to be there for him. Not knowing the rest of Derek's family all I can do is say how sorry I am and that I hope the best for them. |
| Name: | Cynthia Cervantez and Marc Coster |
| E-mail address: | sheila6@jps.net |
| Relationship to Derek: | Friends |
| Comments: | Dear Snelling Family:
We are really sorry about your loss. I(Cynthia)had Derek in my first three classes of the day. We always talked and laughed and he especially loved to pick on me, because I was a considerable amount shorter than him. But anyway I will always remember the day that we got to sit in the same group in our Spanish class. We had to write our own legend in spanish, well Derek wanted to do some crazy one, but I didn't. Me and the other group members decided to do it on The Boy Who Cried Wolf. Derek was the boy and i was the Wolf. One of the scenes called for a choreographed fight and we all decided to let Derek be the choreographer. He choreographed the best fight I had ever won. i enjoyed beating him up it was pretty funny because he played a good part in getting beat up. I(Marc) first met Derek in the 7th grade at Lyman Gilmore. I was a new kid, and was sitting in front of the school after school and I was waiting for my ride home. I didn't have any friends yet and then Derek came up and sat right next to me(he was very popular) he introduced himself and then we became friends. His coming up and talking to me made me feel good and welcome to a new big school. We were at the service this morning and it was a very nice one. Derek was very lucky to have you as a family. We will miss ihm very much and we will never forget him. He will always have a special place in oiur hearts and we will always LOVE him. |
| Name: | Ken & Joy Porter |
| E-mail address: | Cedarrun@timesync.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Friend |
| Comments: | Dear Derek,
In your self portrait, one of your life dreams was to be a hero and save one life. As you looked down on us today and witnessed the love and impact you had on so many lives "Derek, you are a hero!" Through your life and commitment to Jesus, your testimony touched our hearts. We believe that you did save a life, if not many today through the opportunity for others to come to know Jesus through the celebration service in your honor. We imagine you and Jesus looking down upon us with streaming tears of joy. You will be greatly missed. Until we meet again... Ken & Joy Porter |
| Name: | Denny Kaufman |
| E-mail address: | drsongs@jps.net |
| Comments: | I didn't know Derek personally, however my daughter had him
in one of her classes and said he was a great guy. To see the response at the Memorial Service, it was obvious that she was right. The song that was played during the slides "Your love oh lord" by Third Day is one of my favorites. I was just telling Kim Thompson the day before how great that song is. Derek, I like your taste in music. "Your love oh lord reaches to the heavens" "Your faithfulness reaches to the sky" See you in Heaven. Denny (Drummer at the memorial service) |
| Name: | Darren Chapel |
| E-mail address: | darrenchapel@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | friend |
| Comments: | Hello Snellings family, I thought i would take a few
moments to say a few things. I thought that I would tell you about my last time with Derek. Tyler Evan and I got a ride home with Derek from the movies the other night. I was the first in the car, I sat and talked to Derek for about ten minutes. We chatted about Tyler and Natalie and me and Sara. I remember him saying, "would you go out with her (Natile), because if you've got a thing for her i'll split em up for you." We then returned home and Derek announced that he was and his friend were heading for the fun park. he said "Tyler, if you and you're friends want to come, you can." I was shocked, I couldn't believe an older brother would invite his younger brother to go somewhere with him. It was funny. We also went upstairs and played "tony Hawk's Pro Skater" for a while. He made it very clear that he was better than tyler , or anyone else in the room. He shot off his mouth for several minutes when then I passed him the controller. "you're turn" I said. "okay". "but remember, I never fall." I remember that he landed his first trick and then fell on his next two. "i'm really putting on a show for you Darren, I don't think ive ever fallin this much." Those were my last words with Derek Snellings. They are words that I will never forget. Derek touched everyones life that he met and he will never be forgotten. I only had the pleasure of knowing derek vaguely for a few short years but I will always remember him and his effect on everyones life. |
| Name: | Leah Craig |
| E-mail address: | princesspee2000@yahoo.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | friend from church and school |
| Comments: | Tim and Deena I would just like to thank you for raising
such wonderful guy! We all love Derek so much and I want to let you know that I am praying for you guys!! Love you guys!! Leah |
| Name: | Leah Craig |
| E-mail address: | princesspee2000@yahoo.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Friend from Church and School |
| Comments: | Every Tuesday night the Snellings would open their house up
for a bible study. This was always an adventure because as usual the guys out numbered the girls. When the girls would go into the other room with Deena, all boys stayed in the living room. They never seamed to get very serious durring the bible study and you could always count on Derek being the loudest and most obnixious out of the group. But now that I think about it, it was so much fun to see him being able to control the group of guys and the conversation. The most memorable picture I have in my mind of those nights, were when all the guys, Chad Smith, Brannon and Ryan Kent, Ben Freius, and all the others, cuddled on the couch! You could tell that they were special to each other. |
| Name: | Tim Staley |
| E-mail address: | DLP@oronet.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Friend |
| Comments: | To the parents of Derek Snellings,
I have known Derek since my 8th grade year and he was always a nutty fun guy. He would jump off anything, swing from anything, and basicly do anything that was a challenge. I have many memories of visiting J.H. Ranch with Derek and Twin Cities. Although I've known Derek for a few years the only memory that sticks out in my mind is very recent. On June 2,I was talking to Derek after lunch and he told me that the day before he had had 3 bowls of ice cream. Not just one or two but three big bowls. He was pleased by the simple things,that's what was important to Derek. And the Ladies. Thank's for all the good times Derek,Love Tim. |
| Name: | Dave Coudert |
| E-mail address: | cudafish@goldstate.net |
| Relationship to Derek: | friend |
| Comments: | Derek and I were learning to speak Spanish at the same
time. When he would come out to the house there were times when we would try to speak in Spanish only. My daughter would get so mad when we would say things she couldn't understand and we would laugh. I'll never forget that. Dave Coudert. Jackie's Dad. |
| Name: | chris CHapel |
| E-mail address: | chapel@jps.net |
| Relationship to Derek: | Friend |
| Comments: | Hey Derek,
I will always remember playing baseball with you, it was truly a fun time. Hope you are having fun where ever you are, Rest in Peace you will be dearly missed |
| Name: | Tori Orlowski |
| E-mail address: | victoriaorlowski |
| Relationship to Derek: | past friend |
| Comments: | I knew both Derek and Sierra when they used to rock climb
at Ascent. Seren Rubens and myself would climb with him among others many times a week. I haven't really talked to him in a few years aside from just saying "hi" in the halls of NU,(this was my first year there).I'm not sure if he even really remembered me,but I waved just the same. Today I was at the service and it was beautiful. I think it gave many of his friends, close or just acquaintances, closure. It was much apreciated, thank you. -Tori |
| Name: | JD Ellingson |
| E-mail address: | hairyfrosh@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | friend |
| Comments: | The first time I consitered Derek my true friend was last
year. I came to NU as a freshman and like all other freshman, I was unaware of how things worked. One day I was sitting in the cafeteria eating lunch with some of my friends. Across the way, was a group of "THE COOL SOPHOMORES," Derek being one of them. This group of sophomores decided it would be cool to throw food at us. Well it started out as orange peels and crackers, which wasn't too big of a deal. The table of my friends just threw the food right back at them. Then somebody from "THE COOL SOPHOMORE" table threw one of those metal mixed fruit cups. Fruit and fruit juice went flying! Not only did everyone get completely covered in fruit, but to top it off, the can hit me in the head. I will say I was a bit upset. Everyone just laughed. Then later that same day, Derek came up to my during a passing period and said, "Hey, sorry about all that, those guys can be pretty dumb." I thought that was really really cool of him. After a few weeks I realized Derek went to the same church as I did, and I found out he was Sierra's brother. I knew her pretty well from water polo and diving. From then on, Derek and I always said "HI", every time we saw each other. As I got to know him, I really admired how he could have such great faith in God, and still live an exciting, fun life. He really inspired me. I also admired him for inviting his friends to church to try to spread the faith. All in all, I think Derek was, and still is a Wonderful person, and I'm proud to say I know him. I'd also like to add that I'm sure he's having a wonderful time living with the one and only God he so dearly loves... WITH LOVE, -jd ellingson- |
| Name: | Jake Thomas |
| E-mail address: | jake_thomas@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | co-worker at Papa Murhphy's and friend around school and through baseball |
| Comments: | Derek- I miss you soooo much!! I loved working with you,
you made it so much fun. You always called me "Mario" because of my mustache and I will want to be called that from now on. You always called me jaker; I will remember the baking instruction song you came up with, the special "Dereks Delicious Duo" was a good one I tried to sell as many as I could and you thanked me. I remember the day you popped the soda top off the Mountain dew bottle and you got a instant winner to get a basketball hat from the NCAA. Derek: I will never forget you!!!!!!!! You will always be in my thoughts. I just remembered when I was working in the back and you came up and wispered in my ear that I was one of your favorite people to work with- I will always remember you saying that too me. Derek we all love you!!! I hope to see you when I come to live with Jesus Love- Jake (Mario, Jaker) Thomas |
| Name: | Tyler Snellings |
| E-mail address: | tyler@nettop.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Brother |
| Comments: | Derek, I'm gonna miss ya. "Know your role!" |
| Name: | Jamie Pusich |
| E-mail address: | gucky_85@hotmail.com |
| Relationship to Derek: | Tyler's Friend |
| Comments: | I've known Derek & Tyler since I was in 4th grade. I am
going to miss seeing and messing around with Derek when I go to visit Tyler. I really respected Derek. I will remember him forever. Most sincerely, Jamie |