Derek Evans

On Wednesday, February 2, 2022, Robert “Derek” Evans of Fort Saskatchewan entered into the presence of his Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ at the Lamont Health Care Centre after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s. Born in Dublin, Ireland, to Gordon and Patricia Evans, he immigrated with his family to Edmonton in 1957, where he finished high school at Victoria Composite before moving to Camrose. He served in the Royal Canadian Navy from 1961 to 1969. It was while in the Navy that he met and married Audrey, his beloved wife of almost 57 years. In 1969, they moved to Alberta, where they raised their three children. Derek was a lover of nature and had many hobbies, including lapidary and rock-collecting, making “rock goblins” out of petrified wood, and hand-carving Diamond Willow canes. He enjoyed fishing and travelling with his family, and was known for his stories, his beautiful smile, his love of children, and his kind and gentle nature. He had a deep love for the Lord, and was the spiritual leader in his household, leaving an important legacy of faith for his family. Left to mourn are his wife Audrey, his son Geoffrey (Beverly) and their children Dorothy and Robbie, his daughter Sonja, and his son Benjamin. Also survived by two brothers and their families, two brothers-in-law and four sisters-in law and their families in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, many cousins in Ireland and England, and other friends and relatives.

Viewing will take place Wednesday, February 9, at First Memorial Funeral Services – Riverview Chapel in Fort Saskatchewan at 1:00 p.m., followed by a graveside service at 2:00 in the Fort Saskatchewan Cemetery. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

First Memorial Funeral Services – Riverview Chapel is participating in Alberta’s restrictions exemption program. All individuals attending indoor funeral services will be required to provide COVID-19 proof of vaccination, or proof of a privately-paid negative rapid test result taken within 72 hours of service, or documentation of medical exemption.

The family is grateful to the staff at the Long-Term Care department of the Lamont Health Care Centre.

Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Alberta, or to Wyecliff Bible Chapel (169-22560 Wye Rd, Sherwood Park).