We Remember
POWELL, Derrick John
—
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Derrick John Powell, age 50, in the early morning hours of Saturday, August 22nd.
Derrick was one of those people who was impossible to forget. He had a huge personality, a loving heart, and a way of bringing energy and laughter wherever he went. He lived life with plenty of character and left an impression on everyone lucky enough to know him.
Derrick was a paramedic for 19 years, a career he truly loved and was incredibly proud of. He dedicated himself to helping others and touched countless lives throughout his years of service.
He leaves behind his beloved partner, Nikki and her children; his mother, Lynn; his brother, Scott (Edie, fiancée); and his many amazing friends who were lucky enough to share in his life.
He was predeceased by his father, Brian Powell.
Derrick will be remembered for his big heart, big personality, quick wit, and the many stories and memories he leaves behind. Life will be a little quieter without him, and definitely a lot less entertaining.
Rest peacefully, Derrick. You made your mark, and you will never be forgotten.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to BC Cancer – Kelowna – Sindi Ahluwalia Hawkins Centre for the Southern Interior.
A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 1:00 PM (PDT), at Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
Service
Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 1:00 PM (PDT)
Location
Springfield Funeral Home
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Service Information
Service Details
The service for POWELL, Derrick John is scheduled for Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 1:00 PM (PDT). Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.



Derek made all of us better.
Derrick was so deeply loved and will be missed more than words can say. We will always be grateful for the memories, laughter, and time we were lucky enough to share with him. His strength throughout his battle was incredible, and we hope there is some comfort in knowing just how many people loved him and will continue to carry him with them.
Sending all of our love to Auntie Lynn, Scott, Nikki, and everyone who loved Derrick. We love you all and are holding you especially close during this unimaginable loss.
My deepest condolences to the family and loved ones who are grieving the loss of such a special man—a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend. May the love and memories you shared bring you comfort during this incredibly difficult time. Thinking of you all and wishing you strength, peace, and comfort in the days ahead. ❤️
Dear Lynn, Scott and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I hope your happy memories will help you thru the grieving. My deepest condolences to you and your family.
Karen Copp
I knew Derrick as an ER nurse here in Kelowna. There wasn’t a single day that I met him on shift or when he came in with a patient that this man wasn’t smiling, joking, lifting your spirits, or just being plain old good. He was friendly, he was kind, and he represented himself and the uniform he wore with incredible honesty, pride, and respect. My last time seeing him at work was passing him in the hallway of the emergency room as he wrapped a warm blanket around the shoulders of an elderly patient. I wish I had known it would be the last time I would see him, as I never got to say hello that day. I don’t know why life chooses the way it does. As a nurse I’ve seen many people taken before their time and all types of sickness, and Derrick and I had in common that we worked a job where we saw illness, pain, and suffering, but also hope, healing, and kindness. I’m glad knowing that he made a difference for so many people. On the tough days at work he certainly lifted my spirits. Nikki and family: myself and the KGH ER team are keeping him in our hearts. I’ll do my best to keep living up to the example he set for all of us and treating others with respect, kindness, caring, and good humour. To Derrick.
I met Derrick more than 30 years ago in the Cayman Islands. From that time on, we shared a life of adventure—living together and traveling the world. He was a true close friend; I never went a week without speaking to him. There were so many jokes and laughs between us. He will be deeply missed. My wife and kids loved him, and so did I. My heartfelt condolences to Nikki and the family.
I am so sorry for your loss. Thinking of you and all your family members and friends during this difficult time. My heartfelt condolences to you all
Lynn and Scott
We are so sorry to hear about Derrick
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
Jack and Brenda Appel
I had the pleasure of working with Derrick for many years at Surrey memorial. Always smiling despite working in an environment that was difficult to say the least. Rest easy my friend.
Derrick was a huge personality, funny, and caring. I have so many stories that start with, “this one time at SMH, Derrick….” and the hilarity ensued. I will miss him deeply.
I worked with Derrick in ER for a long time, he became a close friend for years after. My heart is broken for you all. Derrick, I hope you find John up there ♥️ You’ll be forever missed.
Condolences to all his family and friends and friendships…. I do not know this gentleman but we all know someone that’s was like him I’m sure. 🥰 Thank you for you service, rest easy now …..
Sending deep and heartfelt condolences. I remember Derrick making the days in the ER so enjoyable. Derrick always brought a smile to our faces and many jokes during the difficult ER days.He will truly be missed.
I met Derek more than 30 years ago in the Cayman Islands. From that time on, we shared a life of adventure—living together and traveling the world. He was a true close friend; I never went a week without speaking to him. There were so many jokes and laughs between us. He will be deeply missed. My wife and kids loved him, and so did I. My heartfelt condolences to Nikki and the family.
Pam and I are so sorry for your loss. Remember when Pam and Derrick went to school together and we were neighbors.
There are truly no words that can properly address the pain of losing your son. My heart breaks for you and your extended family. Derrick choosing a life as a paramedic speaks volumes . It takes a beautiful soul to step forward to help others. You raised an incredible son, and the impact he made on this world is a testament to the love you gave him. Keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
I send love to Lynn, Scotty, Edie, Niki , family and my thoughts are with you all today💜
I met Derrick way back at Surrey hospital and he was the best straight forward guy I have every met. Always will to help you out and explain things to you if you did not understand somethings. Real nice guy to talk with if you are have a bad day. He was the best guy every. My condolence to you and your family. Watch out for us up there big guy. You will be deeply missed.
Will miss you Derrick. Many good memories on car – downtown night shifts, energy drinks, conspiracy theories, and above all the laughs. You deserved better for all your years of service, but there’s only one way out of this life. thanks for the shifts together. We have the watch.