Obituary of Frederick Charles Derks

Frederick C. Derks of Ontario passed away suddenly of a heart attack on January 31, at age 78. 

He is Predeceased by his son, Steven; Sister, Barbara (Daryl) Corteville. Survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Pat; Children, Lori (Al) Burrell, Christopher, Mike (Amy); 10 grandchildren; Megan, Jordan, Jonathon, Alisa, Alyssa, Tucker, Cole, Tanner, Ariana, Grayson. 3 great-grandchildren; Hayley, Alexa, Jessie. Daughter-in-law, Donna; Siblings, David (Donna), Linda (Mark) Haskins; also, many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Frederick, fondly known as Chico to his buddies in high school, was born in Newark, NY to Arthur and Elsie Derks. He had a wonderful childhood and a close relationship with his loving parents. They were supportive and a positive influence on his life. He was raised in Marion, NY. Where he met his wife Patricia Johnson in second grade. They started dating in their junior year. As a child Fred was a talented athlete who loved to play baseball, soccer, and basketball. He went on to play these sports in high school for the Marion Black Knights. Fred married Pat at the young age of 19 and started their beautiful life together where they would raise 4 children.

After attending the University of Rochester, He immediately started a career as a chemist at Kodak Park in Greece working alongside Phd’s in the labs. There he grew and excelled in his career for the next 35 years. During this time, he also freelanced as a professional photographer. He retired from Kodak at 55. Here he made and cherished many lifelong relationships.

Fred always had a great passion for fitness and sports. In his adult life he competed in a Fast Pitch Softball league for over a decade. He also was an avid squash player competing in the top division of the Kodak league. When a hip injury prevented him from playing on the squash court, he began his journey in the gym. This became a passion and a lifestyle working out 5 days a week. No matter what his day consisted of or where it brought him, he would find a gym in his vicinity. He thrived and enjoyed gym fitness right up until his very last day. The day before he passed, he enjoyed his last workout with a dear friend. 

One of Fred’s greatest loves in his life was his children. He was a devoted father and husband and always made time for his kids. Repeat family vacations at Fourth Lake, various camping locations and coastal adventures are memories that they hold onto forever. Supporting his children’s sports careers came easy as it was a handed down passion. He loved pushing them to achieve their goals and celebrating their victories. He would never miss a game, no matter how far it was. Watching his grandchildren excel in sports brought him much joy. Playing with his grand children and great grand children were highlights in his older years. He was so proud to have such a large and loving family.

He lived his life as a devout Christian and Godly man. He accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior in 1974. He volunteered his time in youth ministers and sports programs at First Bible Baptist Church in Greece, NY where he served as a very involved member. Later in life, Fred and Pat attended Williamson Bible Baptist Church as faithful members for many years.

Fred enjoyed retirement for 10 years and then embarked on a new journey as a bus driver for Wayne Central School District. This allowed him to support his passion for youth sports by transporting various sports teams to their away games. He would watch their games and cheer for his student athletes. The comradery of sports life with coaches and athletes filled his athletic passion.

Fred had a habit of making friends anywhere he went. He would light up a room the moment he walked in, and often would leave with a new friend. Everywhere Fred went he would bump into someone who knew and loved him. Spending time with his friends and loved ones was his greatest priority.  He will be greatly missed.

Calling hours on Saturday, February 4, from 11am – 3pm with a service to follow Both at Falvo Funeral Home 1295 Fpt. Nine Mile Pt. Rd. Webster, N.Y. Interment private.