It is with great sadness that the Harrison and Lahoda families say goodbye to their loved one Derrik (Deke) Harrison after a long courageous battle with cancer. He passed away at home with family at his side holding his hands.
Deke was born in Dryden, Ontario, one of six children. He was predeceased by his parents Frank and Doreen Harrison. Survived by his beloved wife of many years Brenda Lahoda, his son Christopher Cartman of Winnipeg; step- daughters Amy and Nicole, his Mother-in-law Olive (Mom); five siblings, David (Pixie) Harrison, Jo-Anne Harrison, Frank Harrison Jr., Karen (John) Hewitson and Darcy (Donna) Harrison, his Aunt and Uncle, Roy and Barb Van Haesendonck, several cousins, nieces, one nephew, several grand nephews and nieces, four grandchildren and grandpuppies.
Deke worked at KFC and then the local paper mill in Dryden until he decided it was time to move on. He left in his early twenties to reside in the cities of Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg and then finally settled in Vancouver where he met the love of his life. He spent his entire career working for one company, Anachemia Science (VWR), that went through many ownerships and name changes climbing his way to Export Manager until his retirement in June 2019.
He grew up playing sports; hockey, baseball, both hardball and softball. He carried this love of sports and the outdoors with him throughout his life. He played fastball with the Richmond Braves at Steveston Park, took part in the “Sun Run” for many years, played golf, hiked, jogged and rode bike along the Fraser River at Foreshore Park.
He will be forever missed by his hiking team and co-workers that took him up the trails of North Vancouver and into the high mountain country around Canmore, Alberta for their Annual Fall Hike, which was a highly treasured time, business meetings and trade shows. His favorite business trip was to Spokane and a chance to dine at Clinkerdaggers Restaurant. Derrik’s Paddlewheeler Pub family in New Westminster B.C. Will also miss his presence at their many celebrations and golf tournaments, where he was always an enthusiastic active member. These friendships were a bond that will never be forgotten.
He was a caring, loving soul who always had a smile on his face. A committed partner, brother, father, friend, employee and companion. He will be forever missed.
A memorial service or Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. If family and friends wish to make donations, in his name, they can be made to The Alpine Club of Canada (Facilities Division), who maintain the mountain huts used for the fall hikes, to the Canadian Cancer Society, or to a charity of your choice.
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Derrik Harrison Friday May 15th 2020..
Affordable cremation and burial
Death notice for the town of: Port-Coquitlam, Province: Colombie britanique