Donald Dale Derrick, 92, a longtime area resident, died January 8, 2022. He was born in Kansas City on May 22, 1929, and later moved with his family to Fair Grove, where he graduated from Fair Grove High School in 1946. He was united in marriage in 1950 with the former Roseanna Janelle Triplett, who died in 1998.

Don earned a bachelor’s degree from Southwest Missouri State College and a master’s degree in speech pathology from the University of Missouri Columbia. He spent a 30-year career working in public education in Columbia, Jefferson City and Springfield as a teacher, speech pathologist, and employee of the State Department of Education.

Don was teaching school for the Goss school district (Marshfield), when he entered the 5^th Army on January 24, 1951. He entered as a private and later was promoted to corporal. His most significant post was at Ft. Leonard Wood (Co. B 92 Armored Infantry Battalion, 6^th Armored Div.) where he taught the use and function of the 50-caliber machine gun. He separated from active service in 1953.

Don was preceded in death by his wife, Janelle; mother (Grace Modean Price) and father, (John Lawrence Derrick); three brothers:  Charles, George, and Kenneth; and his only sister, Dorothy Donnelly. He is survived by three sons: Greg, Bret, and Kevin; 8 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; a former partner/caregiver; and many nieces and nephews.

Don loved gospel and classical music, visiting thrift stores, playing organ, singing, and beautifully maintained automobiles.

A man of sound character, high intellect and good humor, Don will be missed by all who loved and knew him.