Obituary of Derek Wade Sooley

58, Whites Lake. It is with heavy hearts we announce the peaceful passing of Derek on June 29, 2023, in the QEII, after a long struggle with heart disease. Derek was surrounded by family that loved him beyond belief. Derek was born in St John’s Newfoundland to Calvin and Catherine Sooley. He is survived by his two sons, Justin Sooley, and Jayden Sooley; his stepchildren, Steven LeDrew, Carley Fraser, and Wyatt Zwicker his Buckaroo; Sister, Brenda Sooley; Brother, Calvin Robert Sooley; grandchildren, Kraig who he always said "you're the good side of my heart"; Bensen, and Luna. He was predeceased by his Nan and Pup. Derek was a military veteran who faithfully served 20 years of service he fought for his country, he took great pride in knowing he was helping others and standing for what he believed in. He has spent many years as a coach for the Rusty Anchor Sox of Prospect, where he made many lifelong friendships. He also enjoyed his weekly bowling league, playing pool but most of all, Derek was proud to be his grandson’s first basketball coach, and Jasmine’s number one supporter with soccer. His kids, Justin and Jayden, were always the light that kept him out of the dark. He took many people that he called his children along his path, that’s the person he was. He always had a helping hand and would take the shirt off his back for anyone, he was a selfless man. His grandson Kraig, who was his absolute best friend in the world, spent every weekend with him. His grandson Bensen, who he just adored, and his granddaughter Luna who always put a smile on his face, they were always the reason to fight as hard as he did. Derek will be sadly missed, but he will always be remembered for his jokes, and ability to put a smile on anyone’s face, his love for animals especially his dog Ivy and his selfless soul. A special thanks to Angela Morash at the Prospect Fire Department; she gave him the same care and comfort that he gave everyone around him. Arrangements have been entrusted to T. J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, 71 McQuade Lake Crescent, Halifax (902) 835-4212, where visitation will be held on July 3, 2023, from 2pm-4pm and 6pm-8pm followed by a Celebration of Life Service on July 4, 2023, at 1pm in the Funeral Home Chapel. There will be a celebration of life at Derek’s house on July 8, 2023, at 1pm (1 Whites Lake Ave., Whites Lake, NS B3T 1W4.) Everyone is welcome. Thank you to all the nurses and staff that were so helpful with Derek in his last days at the QEII cardiac IMCU they went beyond their call of duty. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the heart and Stroke Foundation.