Derek Pafford
April 24, 1950 – May 1, 2022
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Derek J. Pafford at the age of 72. Derek passed away on May 1, 2022 in the presence of his family at the Maison McCulloch Hospice in Sudbury, ON.
Derek was predeceased by his parents Martha and Alfred Pafford. Predeceased by brothers Gordon, Reg and Norman and sisters Lydia Vincent (Edgar), Eileen O’Quinn (Philip), Margaret Pafford, Evelyn Dingwell and Roxanne Myers (Al). Derek is survived by brother Freeman (Shirley) and sisters Ollie Banfield (Don) and Shirley Earle (Eric)
Born and raised in Corner Brook, NL, Derek moved to Sudbury in 1968 where he would meet the love of his life Nancy. Derek and Nancy had two wonderful children, Jeff (Julie) and Laura Doussept (Dan). Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his grandchildren Bennett, Landon, Sophie and Brady. Derek was immensely proud of Jeff and Laura in their chosen careers and in the families they created.
Derek retired from Inco (Vale) after 30 years of service. Not one to not be busy, he worked part time for Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Canadian Tire for several years after Inco (Vale). A hard-working man, Derek would also enjoy a Newfoundland kitchen party where he was known to break out the spoons. Summer days were spent outside listening to music or a baseball game on the radio. Later in life Derek enjoyed walking, yard work and spending time at home with family.
Derek finally fully retired for his most important and favourite job as Grandpa. Derek enjoyed his grandchildren so much, watching them grow and celebrating birthdays, holidays, hosting sleepovers and simply being with them. You could find Grandpa Pafford at local arenas and baseball fields enjoying Bennett’s hockey and baseball games. Bennett was Grandpa’s hockey hero. Grandpa Pafford could also be seen at soccer games watching with pride and joy as Landon and Brady scored goals. Landon and Brady did their best to teach Grandpa all about the latest video games. Grandpa Pafford enjoyed his only granddaughter Sophie, watching her dancing and participate in gymnastics and he was amazed at her athletic abilities. Grandpa was a presence at all the grandkids activities until he no longer could attend.
Derek struggled for six years with his health issues including small cell lung cancer, bladder cancer and progressive supranuclear palsy. The family would like to thank Dr. Sawkiw, his family physician of 40 years, and Dr. Kelly Graff, Dr. Pianezza, Dr. C Matthew who were so helpful and caring. The family also thanks Dr. Mocanu, Dr. Chiang and all the nursing staff at the Northeast Cancer Centre for their upmost care and understanding.
Nancy, Jeff and Laura are so grateful for Derek’s care by the many PSWs and Bayshore nurses, especially Natalie, who attended the home. Thanks to nurse practitioner Karen Aniol Courtney Pike at NELHIN for their continuing care. Also a huge thanks goes out to Sudbury’s excellent paramedic and paramedicine teams who were there to help and guide the family through difficult times.
The Pafford and Doussept families would especially like to thank neighbours Peter & Gail, Phil and newest neighbhour Sean, for all the help and ensuring the driveway was cleared. Special thanks to Peter who was there to help whenever called. The family appreciates all the neighbours on the street for their assistance over the last several years.
Although Derek’s stay at Maison McCulloch Hospice was brief, he received exemplary care, respect and understanding. The hospice provided the opportunity for everyone to visit and say goodbye to Grandpa in a peaceful setting.
Cremation has taken place. As per the family’s request, there will be no service or visitation. A private family gathering will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers a donation to the Maison McCulloch Hospice would be appreciated – www.maisonsudburyhospice.org/donate
“Long may your big jib draw”
(Newfoundland saying meaning may you have good fortune for a long time)
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Derek Josiah Pafford Sunday May 1st 2022..
Death notice for the town of: Sudbury, Province: Ontario