Obituary of Derek Robert McDonald

February 15, 1996 – Calgary, Alberta

December 5, 2023 – Calgary, Alberta

It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to Derek McDonald, the quiet and gentle soul of our family, who passed away on Tuesday, December 5, 2023, at the age of 27 years. He was a compassionate son and brother, with the kindest heart in the world and dazzling blue eyes.

Born in Calgary on February 15, 1996, Derek arrived 47 minutes before his twin brother and partner in crime, Paul. He was a gentle and compassionate son and brother, with the kindest heart in the world and dazzling blue eyes. He enjoyed his passions deeply and shared them freely with those around him, often introducing others to their new favourite video game or song. No matter the mood, there was a good chance he'd get a smile out of you by sharing something hilarious that he found online. He always saw the good in people and found great fulfillment in helping others. In addition to lifting those around him, he proudly fostered online communities into welcoming spaces for neurodivergent people like himself. He was a great listener and would do just about anything to help people, even those he hardly knew, through hard times.

Derek bravely fought his own personal battle with depression and anxiety. We admire him for his tremendous courage in facing that battle for so many years. We now find comfort in the knowledge that Derek's soul is at peace.

Derek attended Mother Mary Greene Elementary School, Tom Baines Junior High, and Sir Winston Churchill High School. He studied Mechanical Engineering at the University of Calgary and recently completed a post-diploma certificate in Data Analytics with honours at SAIT. 

He is survived by his loving mother Kathy McDonald, stepfather Luc Ingelbeen, sister Alison (James), brother Cameron, and twin brother Paul. He is also survived by his grandmother Doreen Bieber; uncles, John and Dave Bieber; aunts, Lina and Turi; cousins, Jack and Harlan; and his father Robert McDonald, as well as many other extended relatives. He was predeceased by his grandfather Benjamin Bieber, who we know accompanies him now.

Derek loved to be in nature. He was truly at home during times spent with family in Summerland, BC, Katepwa Lake, SK, and Fairmont, BC. He loved to explore the rivers and lakes while swimming and tossing a ball for our dogs. We will carry him with us as we continue to enjoy our time in nature.

He will be greatly missed.

A Celebration of Derek’s Life will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, Calgary, AB), on Sunday, May 26, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Derek’s family here.

In living memory of Derek McDonald, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, Calgary, AB T3G 2T3, Telephone: 403-241-0044.