K. HEATHER DERKSON
It is with much sadness that we announce the passing of Heather Derkson at the Health Sciences Centre on Thursday, September 24, 2026. Left to cherish Heather’s memory are her daughters, Dana, Megan and son-in-law Trevor. Heather was predeceased by her husband Allan and parents, Bill and Ruth. Mom was born an only child, in Winnipeg and raised a “north-ender” graduating from St John’s High School. Immediately after graduation she started working for the City of Winnipeg, which is where she met her one-and-only love, Allan. They married in 1968 and in 1973, built their family home in St Norbert - where Heather resided until her last days.
Heather was a devoted wife and mother. She was a skilled seamstress, excelled at baking, chaperoned school trips, hosted holiday dinners, got the trailer ready for summer excursions, canvassed for donations representing multiple organizations and enjoyed being a Girl Guide leader.
When Heather’s daughters got older, she resumed her working life with the U of M at the Faculty of Phys-Ed and Rec Studies, retiring after 15 years. For a relatively short time after retirement, Mom and Dad enjoyed travel - Mexico was a favourite destination.
After Dad’s death, Mom embraced this new part of her life whole heartedly - choosing to become more involved with the community, joined PAL55+, and was the programming chair, organized their first pickleball program and was a Still Bloomin Gardening club co-convenor. She held several posts with the Fraternal Order of Eagles Ladies Auxiliary, including treasurer and president and was always eager to assist with bingo, the fall supper and children’s Christmas shopping spree. Mom always looked forward to Heritage day, Canada day and fitness classes, at the St Norbert Community Centre.
We want to thank Dr Brian Sharkey for over 30 years of dedication to Mom, the Winnipeg Paramedics and all of the staff at the Victoria General Hospital, Health Sciences Centre and CancerCare, for providing Mom with incredible care. More recently, Dr Jordan Perillo, who always treated Mom with compassion.
Mom did not wish to have a memorial service. She will be interred with Dad at a later date at Brookside Cemetery. We are very appreciative of Voyage Funeral Homes for taking care of arrangements.