Derek Romero

Derek was born on Sept 2, 1996 and was 19 years old when he lost his life.

Wear your life jacket, have a float plan(make sure the person that is trusted with your float plan will keep up with you), have a 2way radio or an emergency beacon, make sure your boat and equipment are in good working condition before you go out on the water!!

Derek and his friend decided to take a deep water fishing trip in a boat much too small for area. Although they enjoyed a day on the water, on their return trip, the motor failed. Without a radio and cell service, they were unable to call for help which left them stranded. With limited resources the boys did everything they could to signal their distress to possible rescuers and prepared themselves for a calm night on the water. While they slept, the weather changed and overturned the boat. The boys were 11 miles offshore hanging onto the bow rope waiting for someone to find them. Although Derek was wearing a life vest and wet suit, the April water was too cold for the 9 plus hours they were in the water and Derek succumbed to hyperthermia.

Derek was fun, wild hearted and intelligent, he was loved and he was loving; he showed up to help whenever he was needed, and he was always up for an adventure. He was a 2015 NISH graduate; and made everyone laugh. He was handsome and kind; he was daring and brave and oh so much more. Derek loved soccer and woodworking, hunting and fishing, was an avid outdoorsman with an infectious smile. He loved trucks and going fast, he participated in Boy Scouts with his dad, and enjoyed days on tractors and boats, he hugged people and meant it; he worked hard and played harder. Derek made friends easily and kept them forever. A deep and lasting mark is imprinted on the hearts of everyone that met and loved him.

Many thanks to Mr Ricky Gravois and his son Rick for making the cross and bringing my vision to the next level.