Derek Ellsworth

Derek, the son of Philip Ellsworth and Diana Petrie, was born July 7, 1970, in Wichita, Kansas. Derek’s early years were spent being an amazing big brother to his younger siblings, Damon and Deah. This is also when Derek met Larry, whom would be his best friend throughout his life. There are not many stories to tell about Derek where Larry is not connected. His love and zest for life would make anyone who met him want to call him their friend.Derek graduated from West High in 1988 and went on to attend Friends University. The relationships and the memories that were made during his time at Friends was definitely one of his favorite seasons of his life. After graduation, Derek spent much of his life following in his father’s footsteps, which included softball and love of Mopars. He worked side by side with his dad in the fiberglass pipe industry. He also learned everything that he needed to know on how to strip a car to its frame and build it back again from his dad. Those times not only taught him a trade, but taught him about the man he was to become.His passion for cars was matched only by his passion to help his family and friends. These two passions were usually combined when helping anyone with their car problems. It didn’t matter how busy he was, he would drop everything to help his loved ones out. Many stories could be told about the antics that happened while working with him in his garage.Derek finally met the love of his life in 2012. Derek shared a life with Heather and her two daughters, Stacia and Mak. He finally had a family of his own where he could share all the love that had been given to him. He loved recreating his childhood vacations with them. He found immense joy in making new memories with his family.Derek left this world to enter eternal rest on Friday, December 24, 2021. There was no better, partner, son, brother, or friend than Derek. His kind and gentle spirit will live on in the hearts that were blessed enough to know him.Derek is reunited in heaven with his father, Phil, and all his beloved grandparents and fur pups. Derek is survived by his mom and step-father, Diana and Dr. Kevin Petrie; fiancé, Heather Wiles and daughters, Stacia and Mak; siblings, Damon (Tricia) Ellsworth, Deah (Jason) Duda, Andrea Petrie, Nathan Bryant; nieces and nephews, Bailey, Landon Derek, Avery and Jackson; many loving aunts, uncles, cousins and friends that counted him as family; and his dog, Diesel. Our hearts are forever broken until we link up again.Visitation, 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm, Thursday, December 30, 2021, at Downing & Lahey West Mortuary; Funeral Services will be at 10:00 am, Friday, December 31, 2021 at Aldersgate United Methodist Church. Masks will be required at all services.