Obituary of Steven Frederick Derks
On May 8, 2019, Steven Frederick Derks, a loving husband, passed away from complications caused from a stroke. Steve was born September 2, 1963 in Newark, NY to Frederick and Patricia (Johnson) Derks. Siblings: Lori (Al) Burrell, Christopher and Mike Derks. A life-long resident of Rochester, NY. He graduated high school from Northstar Christian Academy. He attended MCC for a few years before having a long management position at Pontillo’s Pizzeria in Bushnell’s Basin in Pittsford, NY. For the past 12 years he has had a successful career as a route driver for Ellis Coffee Company. On May 21, 1988 he married Donna M. Swift. They shared a wonderful 31 years together, exemplifying true love and happiness. Together they selflessly puppy raised dogs for Guiding Eyes for the Blind for 22 years.
One of Steve’s greatest passions was his love for running. He ran 23 marathons all over the country, and has been very successful finishing high in his age bracket on many occasions. Steve was a vibrant person who enjoyed the outdoors with Donna. They enjoyed gardening together and loved going on vacations, spending quality time creating memories. Steve’s love and dedication for the Lord shined through his life every day, and touched so many lives around him. He found the Lord at the young age of 9, and was saved at Circle C Ranch. He spent all of his youth at First Bible Baptist Church in Greece, and was involved in every aspect of the church. He was an Usher for five years and helped with Christmas decorations. As a former soccer player he gave back to the youth program helping out with the Happy 5 soccer program. With his passion for running, Steve was heavily involved with The Race with Grace, and acted as Assistant Director for four years.
His home at Faith Bible Church allowed him to spread his passion and inspire people’s hearts, growing everlasting relationships. He was an usher, part of the Saturday cleaning crew, and helped out in the kitchen with food prep for special events. Recently, he joined the Audio Visual team and enjoyed being involved in the technical side of the music for the services.
Our hearts are at ease knowing that Steve is spending eternity with his savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. Steve was a great man and will be missed by everyone that had the pleasure of knowing him.
Family and friends are invited to attend Calling Hours between 1 PM and 5 PM on SATURDAY, May 11th at Miller Funeral and Cremation Services, Inc. (3325 Winton Rd. S). Steve's Memorial Services will be held at 11 AM on MONDAY, May 13th at Faith Bible Church (1095 E. Henrietta Rd).
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Steve's name to:
Cure Childhood Cancer Association
200 Westfall Road,
Rochester, NY 14620
Click HERE to Donate
Living Donor Transplant at UR Medicine
Attn: Leah Solea
601 Elmwood Ave, Box Surg
Rochester, NY 14642
Guiding Eyes for the Blind
611 Granite Springs Road,
Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
Click HERE to Donate
