The obituary notice of Derek CHEETHAM

It's so difficult to find the words to express just how awesome a person you were Grandad, looking over the tributes on here already just proves the just how amazing you have been throughout your lifetime, and the impact you've had on the lives of those that were blessed to know you.

You and Grandma have looked after me throughout my life since Dad and Lisa found each other. I hold so many fond memories, playing with your trains and shortwave radio during overnight stays, our family holidays together, nights in playing Tekken on the Playstation and weekend adventures as a family.

I will proudly carry you upon my shoulder for your final journey, however, I would like to think that this will not be our final goodbye. Be it in afterlife, or a new life completely, our paths will once again cross, and there will be more good times to come.

Until then, rest well, and thank you for being you. A blessed soul with a huge heart, who loved his family and friends and made everyone who knew him happy.

Love you tonnes Grandad. From me, Emma and Liam 💖 xxx

Derek you will always be remembered with great love and affection by our family. You visited Ireland twice- once with Brenda and Lisa in the late 1980’s for your lovely niece Julie and our brother Richard’s wedding. And again in 2000/2001 just for a little visit, and on both occasions your kindness and gentle nature shone through. You were always so warm, caring and with a great sense of fun about you, a fantastic personality. You made everyone feel comfortable in your presence. Derek you will be sadly missed, but fondly remembered always. Our entire family have such lovely warm memories of you. We send our deepest sympathy to your beloved Brenda, your daughter Lisa, son in law Paul, grandchildren and your entire family. May your gentle soul now Rest In Peace.

It’s not often in life you meet someone who you instantly connect with, well thankfully for me that turned out to be the case with Derek. He was not just a father-in-law he was my Scunny Dad but above all that one of my true friends. We did so much together and put the world to rights on many occasions often over a glass or two.

I’m going to miss you Dec and whenever I pour myself a glass of Rum I’ll be thinking of you and all those happy times.

A wonderful man who was full of fun. Glad we knew him, he will be so missed. God bless, Derek X

Although we only met once I can still remember our conversation. A kind and funny man who we loved to hear about whenever we chatted with Lisa. It’s clear you were a loving husband, father and grandfather.

I am glad your final hours were spent surrounded by your loved ones at the hospice. The nurses are superheroes.

Stacey and Simon x

You will be forever missed but never forgotten, you were the best Dad, much loved Husband, Grandad and friend to everyone.

Thank you to all the staff at the Hospice for taking care of Dad and making him comfortable in his final hours.

My deepest condolences to you and your family sending love to you all.