WALTER G. DERKACH

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WALTER G. DERKACH After a lengthy battle with poor health, on Friday, December 19, 2008, Walter G. Derkach died peacefully with his family at his side, holding his and each other's hands. He leaves his loving wife Mary of 52 years and his son Terry, whom he was very proud of. He also leaves to cherish his memory, his brothers Eddie (Carolyn) and family, Brian (Dorothy) and family, many nieces, nephews and great nieces, as well as countless cousins and close friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Peter and Pauline Derkach. Born in Fisher Branch, Manitoba on March 18, 1934, he grew up playing baseball and inevitably getting into mischief. After high school, he bought a truck with his uncle and hauled fish and lumber throughout northern Manitoba and into Winnipeg until his family moved into the city in 1953. A year later, at the age of 20, Walter saw an ad posted in The Free Press by the St. Boniface Police Department looking for police constables. He applied for the position, and with his 6'6 frame and 200+ pounds, was hired on the spot. From walking the beat in 30 below winters, to only a few years later being promoted to detective, he protected the citizens of Winnipeg for 30 years, for which he received a number of commendations. He played in both the police curling and baseball leagues, where his pitching skills became legendary, and in 2007, was inducted into the Manitoba Baseball Hall of Fame. After retirement, he continued being an avid sports enthusiast, interested in football, curling and of course his love for baseball never waned, while also enjoying road trips to The Shooting Star Casino trying his luck at the slot machines. At Walter's request, cremation has taken place and a Memorial Service celebrating Walter's life will be held on Tuesday, December 23 at 11:00 a.m. at the Coutu Funeral Home, 680 Archibald St., with Father Ron Leger officiating. A private family interment will take place at a later date. The family wishes to thank the ICU staff at the Grace Hospital with a special and most sincere thank you to nurse John Prefontaine for his incredible warmth, eloquence and profound compassion. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association, PO Box 12013 STN BRM B, Toronto, ON., M7Y 2L3. The Coutu Family in care of arrangements: E.J COUTU CO. FUNERAL DIRECTORS 680 Archibald Street 253-5086

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 22, 2008