Rob Realini

I met Dereck in the 4th grade when my family moved to Millbrae.  We both had the same teachers at Meadows School and shared many experiences as we grew.  He was a ladies man then as you can imagine.  He left after the 6th grade only for us to hook up again at Mills.  We shared some personal moments over the years but had grown  apart.  However, we were still friends and I will always remember his lending me a helping hand when I needed it.

I think of him everytime I go by Peter Pans BMW in San Mateo as that is where we would carry on some our talks.   It was more of a kinship than a freindship.

I always remember when our 6th grade teacher (neat freak) took a students desk, with the student still in it, and tossed it against the wall because it was an absolute mess.  After the shcok had subsided from these 11 and 12 year olds, Deerek grabbed my arm and said, "...come on lets help him..."  Never forgot that. 

Rest in peace Dereck,  and may your family have comfort in knowing that you were special. 
 

Robin Bofird (Best)

My condolences to the Dragonetti Famly. My heart is saddened to lose a fellow classmate! Dereck was a very sweet and kind friend to all! He will be missed . May He Rest In Peace!

Sally Hill (DeLair)

Extremely sad news.  Dereck was a sweet and kind soul.   What a great personality and smile!  He had smiling eyes too.  Peace and blessings to the family and loved ones. 

Janet Gross (Martinez)

I too was so very saddened to read of Dereck's tragic accident!  I remember Dereck as always a nice guy with a smile!  I was glad to see him at the reunion. Very deepest condolences to his family and friends. Remember that each day is a precious gift and opportunity to be kind. 💔

Anne Busalacchi (Wilhelm)

Dereck and I shared the greatest joy and accomplishment in our son, Jeff, our daughter-in-law, Severine and our grandchildren, Vincent and Emilie.

Over the last 50 years, our relationship survived through good times and bad.  With all the complications that life brings, I am so grateful that we always ended up in a peaceful place.  

Dereck will be sorely missed and I am greatly saddened for our loss.

Jonette "Joni" Middleton (Brockway)

I was so sad to receive the news of Dereck's tragic accident. Thank you Anne for letting all of us know. I am so sorry for your loss and for your children. I pray that you will find comfort in your happy memories. Please share the comments from Dereck's classmates with the rest of his extended family. There are so many kind words about the kind and caring man that Dereck was. I am so sorry that I will be in Philadelphia on Saturday  I have sent flowers and a note on behalf of our class of 1970.  There is nothing left to say except that Dereck was a kind soul who will be greatly missed.    Psalm 34:18  The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. You are in my prayers as you go through this most difficult time .  Joni

Lynne Mibach (Byrne)

So sad!  I remember Dereck as a gentleman to in school.  He always had a smile when we talked at the reunions.  I will miss him. 

Elsa Mills (Boze)

So sad to hear about Dereck.  My prayers for strength and comfort for his family at this time.  May God wrap his loving arms around them.

Gayle Davidson (Govednik)

Prayers to the Dragonetti family at this most difficult time.

David Wilson

This really saddens me.  I remember Dereck from Meadows Elementary- most of the class ended up going to Capuchino.  Dereck was just about the ultimate in cool- including the name. Remember he had a cute girlfriend in 6th grade named Maureen.  Great guy- times like this Im glad I have faith in an afterlife but damn it all to hell just the same.