Derek Russell Macklem, in his 51st year, passed away at home on Thursday, January 11, 2024. He was born on January 29, 1973, in Orangeville, ON, and was a long-time resident of Barrie, Ontario.
Derek was well known for his huge smile, love of mountain biking and his dog Tony. Derek was a talented artist and loved to work with his hands making or fixing things for anyone that asked. His work was always highly praised and was done with an artists eye, whether it was building a deck, a fence, building furniture, or any handyman work around the house. He loved his music and would play the guitar for anyone that would sit and listen. He always loved to take things apart, learn how to fix and then make them better, with his most recent project rebuilding an antique bicycle.
Derek is survived by his mother Ann Macklem (nee Flear), his two sisters Debbie (Craig) Knight and Katie. Derek was uncle to Jordan Travis and Kaden Prince, nephew to many aunts and uncles, a beloved cousin and friend. Derek was predeceased by his father, Jon Macklem, his niece Alexandra and many other loved ones.
Derek did everything with an eye for perfection and determination. He will be greatly missed by all his friends, family and colleagues.
He has joined his father, niece and beloved dog "Big Dog" Tony. Services will be held at Westminster Church on February 10th at 2:00 pm followed by a Celebration of Life at 2:45 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Canadian Cancer Society, an organization Ann, Debbie and Katie feel strongly about.