Derek passed away in the early hours of Nov. 27, 2024, at Victoria Hospice, from pancreatic cancer. He was in his 75th year.
Derek was born in West Ham, England and came to Canada with his family at age 7. Raised in Haney, BC, he joined the Army of the Canadian Armed Forces in 1968, where he served his whole career as a medic and physician assistant, achieving the rank of Warrant Officer. Derek served in many postings across Canada, as well as in Germany and Cyprus. Following his retirement, he joined the Corps of Commissionaires where he continued to work at CFB Esquimalt.
Derek is survived by his wife, Joan Locker, daughter Daniel Norman, in Petawawa, ON, son Kelsy Norman, in Calgary AB, 5 grandchildren, and sister Linda Norman in Kelowna BC. Predeceased by parents James and Iris Norman, and step-father Ross Heath.
A Memorial Service for Derek will be held Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. in Sequoia Gardens at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
29 Responses
Dear Joan and family, I was so sad to read of Derek’s passing. We worked together in Halifax so many years ago. We lost touch over the years, we lived on different coasts, but I was so happy to reconnect last year, in Victoria. Fair winds and soft landings, my dear old friend.
Dear Joan
We met you at the Chemainus Theatre with Derek. We are all so shocked and saddened over his death as we loved him like family.
Dawn Smith and family
I am so very sorry to hear that Derek has passed and send my warmest thoughts and considerations to All – and personally to Joan – at this sad time. Derek was such a cheerful and pleasant personality and he always made those he was with feel that he was happy to be in their presence. He was a lovely person.
Joanie!! My deepest condolences. I will always cherish the memories that Derek and I shared. Connected by not only the CAF uniforms but also as a fellow Commissionaire too. Derek was more like family to me than my own blood. He’s been there through so many milestones in my life. I am truly gutted to hear of this news. I love you xox Always
Hi Joan:
My heart felt condolences to you and the family. Derek was a good man. We are going to miss him a lot.
Caroline
Dear Joan,
My heart and thoughts are with you Joan.
With deep sympathy.
Pam Miller
My deepest condolences Joan. Thinking of you at this sad time.
Mary Emerson
We were deeply saddened to hear of Derek’s passing.
Please accept our heartfelt condolences, Joan, to you and the entire family during this difficult time.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, and we stand with you in spirit.
Claudine’s parents
Sherbrooke, Québec
Dear Joan and Derek’s family. I am so glad you and Derek were here for Christmas in 2023. It truly was a special time together. Thanksgiving this year too was a time to remember together. It is so sad Derek could not live longer. He was a real presence in any gathering and so loved to converse and laugh. Many friends and family in Ontario send their condolences and appreciated knowing Derek for this short time. A sad and difficult time of loss for you and all. Love and Hugs Jean