Contributions to the tribute of Mr. Derek Croft Sr.

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Wednesday, July 17, 2024

The Eulogy: First off, on behalf of myself and my family, I’d like to thank you all for coming from near and far. For those whom I’m meeting for the first time, I'm Ian, Derek and Jean's youngest child and I’ll be sharing a few thoughts and memories about my father with you. As I reflect on his life, I'm reminded of the countless moments when his kindness and generosity touched the lives of those around him. My father was not just our parent, but a mentor and friend to many. His laughter was infectious, his love unwavering and his advice…well let’s just say it was invaluable most of the time! I feel like if there were a Derek Croft, Sr. novel it would be split into 2 parts titled: Family and Service. Family We have all been blessed to have called my father, OURS. Our father, our uncle, our grandfather, our friend. He was a huge supporter of his wife, (my mother), Jean, us, (his children), and all of his grandkids. When we were boys, he would take me and my brother to football practice in our brown Impala station wagon, and sometimes wait and watch until practice was finished. He could be spotted in the front row of most games, concerts, and graduations of his children and grandchildren. Front row because he and my mother arrived everywhere a half hour before the start time. That was true for work, church, and also family functions. Daddy would never miss a family gathering. He looked forward to finding out what was new in the lives of the younger folks, sharing a story with them, and making everyone laugh with his quick wit and recycled Guyanese jokes. In 2022 he stopped driving, so his and my mother’s visits to our home became sleepovers. He always shared how much he looked forward to staying over and described it as a “mini vacation”. It warmed our hearts then and even more so now because my wife and I also looked forward to that extended quality time. Whenever we visited his house—as big and grown as we all are—he would always send us home with a little something. It could be a tin of biscuits, bottles of juice, chocolates, tomatoes from his garden, you name it. If you left his house empty-handed, then he wasn’t home! Daddy also loved to cook. If you somehow thought you’d be popping in for a minute, you’ve made an error. Be prepared to stay awhile, and you’d better have brought your appetite. He would whip up some cooked food, lay the table and we would have a full-on dinner almost like he planned to have company in advance. After grace, he’d insist that we said a toast to something. Whether your glass was empty, or it had wine, juice or water, you’re raising it. It usually went, “what are we toasting to?” While everyone feigned contemplation, he’d offer up, “okay, to togetherness & love.” It was virtually the same toast, every time. As I mentioned earlier, storytelling and traditions were important to my father. He was instrumental in sharing culture and creating fun and lasting traditions that we all enjoy. The big one that probably all of the family members and close friends here have attended was our annual Croft Family Fun Day. The year 2000 was our very first Croft Fun Day, held at the Kidstown Water Park on Birchmount Rd. in Scarborough. It had just opened up that year. All of our children were much younger and Daddy thought it would be a nice time for the kids and he was so right—they loved it! And right then, the annual Fun Day tradition was born! This gathering grew every year with visiting relatives from the States and even Guyana sometimes joining us. The group graduated from the Scarborough Water Park, then downtown to High Park, north to Markham and eventually concluded in 2018 after several years of returning to Erindale Park in Mississauga. Each cousin would take a turn planning and leading the Fun Day. While I was preparing this tribute, the thought dawned on me—we should restart this tradition in honor of Daddy. Service My father was a man who believed in the value of actions over words. His daily life was a testament to this belief. Daddy tried to always be there for everyone—friends, family, neighbours, church brothers, and sometimes even strangers. When I was a child I enjoyed accompanying my father when he headed out to do weekend errands. There were several times we’d stop at a red light near a bus stop. If the weather was bad, I’d be thinking, “Oh no”—because I knew, like clockwork, my father will start checking out the folks waiting for the bus. If he spotted someone with several grocery bags or a parent with a small child, he’d start winding down the window, lean over, and ask if they wanted a ride. They would perk up and yell, “thank you!” as they gathered their stuff and started heading to the car. He’d take them as far as we were heading or anywhere along the way. Gen Y and Gen Z’ers? Relax. That was way back in the day when a free ride was like winning a prize. Plus, no one had a smartphone to post a picture of my Dad calling out to random people at the bus stop with some crazy caption added to it. People were much kinder and the world, much safer back then. My father’s kindness and generosity will be remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him, but mostly by his church family at St. Michael and All Angels Church in Toronto. This was my father’s home church for over 30 years. He was an active member who amply contributed his time and resources. He was the Churchwarden for four of those 3 decades. Daddy largely assisted with the church’s 100th-year anniversary by arranging a gospel cruise/fundraiser which was a memorable and successful celebration, warmly reflected on for years after. All who knew Derek Croft Sr. would remember him as a big man with a huge personality. He was very outgoing and knew how to make a friend wherever he went, whether he was in an elevator or away enjoying life on one of his many vacations. He was quite sociable and always left a friendly impression. I’m certain that Daddy woke up each day with a song in his heart, evidenced by his jubilant whistling or humming of a tune, no matter how he felt. His constant state of joy, encouraged others. In Romans 15:13, Scripture says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Summing up my father's life, I keep coming back to one thought. He was generous right to the end. My father gave me a parting gift. He waited for me and my mother to be at his bedside before he passed. I felt like he wanted to be sure his son would be there to comfort his beloved wife when his time came. I am humbled by my mother's strength over the past few months and days. Her ability to focus on the wonderful life she shared with Daddy and not dwell on what she was losing… we have all found strength from her example, recognizing that all of us can only lean on God for divine comfort, guidance, and hope for the future. In closing, I’d like to share a poem by Joanne Fuchs called, “Life Lessons” Life Lessons You may have thought I didn't see, Or that I hadn't heard, Life lessons that you taught to me, But I got every word. Perhaps you thought I missed it all, And that we'd grow apart, But Dad, I picked up everything, It's written on my heart. Without you, Dad, I wouldn't be The person I am today; You built a strong foundation No one can take away. I've grown up with your values, And I'm very glad I did; So here's to you, dear father, From your forever grateful kid. By Joanna Fuchs On behalf of myself and my family, I’d like to say a heartfelt thanks to all of you for your comfort, love, support, and prayers, for being here with us today, and there for us on this difficult journey. We appreciate you more than you know.

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Marcy Letlow posted a condolence

Monday, July 15, 2024

Derek was one of the kindest person I have ever met. He was friends with my aunt's Ruby and Leila they were part of a select group of Guyanese pioneers. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

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Valerie Brewster posted a condolence

Saturday, June 29, 2024

To the Croft family, My sincerest and deepest condolences to you all during this very difficult time. I knew Derek from our church, St. Michael and All Angels Anglican. He was a kind and thoughtful gentleman. I will remember him for his helpful nature and his contributions to our many functions over the years. May you take comfort in knowing that Derek is resting peacefully in His presence and He will continue to give you Strength and Faith. Sincerely, Valerie Brewster

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Tania Lindo posted a condolence

Thursday, June 27, 2024

To the Croft family, Sending our deepest condolences for this great loss. May you draw upon fond memories made together during a long and meaningful life. Mr Croft leaves a proud legacy through all of you. Rest in peace & power Mr Croft...you're with the ancestors now. Tania Lindo

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Rupert Louis Jarvis posted a condolence

Thursday, June 27, 2024

To the family and friends of Derek, I sincerely extend my condolences. We had a good relationship and I know him to be a very nice person. He will definitely be missed and on behalf of my family, you have my sympathies. May he Rest in Peace and rise in everlasting Glory!

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Maurice Croft posted a condolence

Wednesday, June 19, 2024

My brother Derek.During your journey on your final flight home. White wings will carry you and you will be flown. To the pearly gates of Heaven, where they will usher you in. To the feet of your Lord, your Saviour, and your friend. He will hold you in his arms and the angels will sing. As another one of His children is delivered by white wings. Maurice ~

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The family of Mr. Derek Croft Sr. uploaded a photo

Monday, June 17, 2024

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Donna Mccollin posted a condolence

Monday, June 17, 2024

In the gentle breeze, in acts of selflessness and moments of thoughtfulness - we remember Mr. Derek. His spirit eternally embedded within our hearts, his generous soul shimmering amidst the stars. An angel sent to us each summer, an enduring family friend whose devotion never faltered. Joining God's celestial orchestra, may your rest be as tranquil as your living was profound. With you always in spirit, Donna and Denton McCollin - godspeed on your journey into eternity Mr. Derek, our beloved nurturer and friend.