Obituary of Richard Derrick

Richard Derrick of Eugene, Oregon, passed away on March 31, 2014 at home after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his wife and two sons. Richard is survived by his wife, Jean of Eugene; two sons, Randy of New Orleans; Riley of Eugene; brothers Clifford, Mike and Kenny of Tillamook; as well as two sisters, Marion and Kathleen of Tillamook and many nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Logan and Frances; and a brother, Jerry of Tillamook. Richard was born on July 14, 1945 in Astoria, Oregon to Logan and Frances Derrick. Growing up Richard lived and worked on several family dairy farms, one of which was that of John and Lois Craven. He often spoke fondly of this experience. In 1964 he graduated from Tillamook High School. In 1964 Richard enlisted in the United States Air Force. He rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant. In October of 1968 he left active duty at Westover AFB in Massachusetts and served two more years in the Air Force Reserves. During this period Richard was described as an exceptionally exacting and responsible individual; and an outstanding airman. He was honorably discharged on December 29, 1970. Richard moved to Eugene, Oregon in 1970 and started working at Firestone. It was during this time that he met Jean Peterson. They were married on November 6, 1971 in Eugene. In January of 1982 they were blessed with the birth of twin boys. After several years of working for Montgomery Ward, Richard entered auto sales in 1978; starting at Guaranty Chevrolet. Throughout the years Richard sold many automobiles from different manufactures. The vast majority of his career was spent with Toyota. Richard achieved great success throughout his career receiving many honors and accolades including regional and national sales recognition awards. For 15 consecutive years Richard was a recipient of recognition in Toyota's highly coveted Sales Society. The peak of Richards awards came in 1995 and 1998 when he achieved the status of Sales Society Master. This award is given out to the top 50 Toyota salespersons in the United States. He spent the last 13 years of his career working with Kendall Auto Group in various positions. Above all else in the auto business, Richard was well known for his integrity and work ethic. He loved what he did because it gave him the opportunity to help people. He was truly selfless and kind beyond measure. He will be deeply missed. The funeral will be held on Monday April 7, 2:00pm at Friendly Street Church of God. Memorial contributions may be made to Friendly Street Church of God. Arrangements by Musgrove Family Mortuary in Eugene.