Derek passed away tragically on Feb. 13 near Modesto at the age of 31. He was born in Turlock and was raised in Hilmar. He attended Hilmar schools and graduated in 1997. He received his A.S. degree from MJC in Computer Science. He worked for JHL Office Interiors for the past 10 years as a computer graphics designer and salesman. He was especially talented in computer and sound systems technology. He was a master of many trades and always willing to help anyone of his friends and their friends. He was talented, creative, funny and witty. His skills and abilities varied from building and riding quads, playing sports to designing his own house and custom line of clothing.
He loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them. He had a special affection for everyone, especially children who adored him.
He will be dearly missed by this lovely wife, Michelle; his loving parents, Carlos and Tina Rocha; his father and mother in-law, Tony and Delfina Morris; his aunts and uncles, Isabel and Phil Tellerine, Maria and Ernie Longoria, Victor and Barbara Rocha, Fatima and John Dias, Celina and Joe Rocha, Rosa and Joaquim Fraga, and Joe and Yvonne Enes; and his sisters and brothers-in-law, Laurie and Clarence Oliveira, Stephanie and Michael Ralls, Nancy and Johnnie Azevedo, and Diana Morris. He also leaves behind much-loved cousins, nieces and godchildren.
While his life was too short on this earth, he left so many memories that will be treasured forever by his family and friends. May he be in peace with the Lord enjoying the fruits of heaven.
Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 17 at Whitehurst, Norton & Dias Funeral Home in Turlock. Recitation of the Rosary will be at 7 p.m. on Thursday at Holy Rosary Church in Hilmar. Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 18, also at Holy Rosary Church in Hilmar with internment to follow at Hilmar Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hilmar Holy Rosary Church New Building Fund, P.O. Box 429, Hilmar, CA 95324 or to the New St. Stanislaus Church in Modesto, 1200 Maze Blvd., Modesto, CA 95351.
