Derek Williams

Derek J. Williams, age 31, of Wausau died unexpectedly on Monday, September 14, 2020.

Derek was born on February 17, 1989 in Wausau to Doug and Brigid (Finnegan) Williams.  He graduated from Wausau East in 2007 and went on to get his bachelor’s degree in Business Operations Management with a minor in Economics and Sociology from UW Milwaukee in 2012. Derek was constantly striving to be the best version of himself.  He was eager to learn and proud to be currently enrolled in the Human Services and Substance Abuse Counselor Education programs at Northcentral Technical College.  He dreamed of helping as many people as he could and aspired to be a positive influence to those in need.

Derek loved spending time with his dad at the shooting range or taking spontaneous trips on the motorcycles, as well as hanging out at Hodag around a fire with his mom. He also enjoyed hiking and going on random adventures with his sister. Derek was an old soul who could be found with a cup of coffee watching the sun come up, and listening to music. Derek also found happiness in a beautiful sunset and the San Francisco Bay beaches.

Derek had a passion for helping others and volunteered often. He was always there for advice, support and encouragement, or a shoulder to cry on whenever he was needed. Derek always put others first and never met a stranger. He will be remembered for his big heart, sense of humor, and contagious smile.

Derek is survived by his dad Doug (Deanna Budd) Williams, mom Brigid (Jeff Schaefer) Williams, sister Kaitlyn (AJ Stark) Williams, dog Bentley and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Ermal and Edith Williams, maternal grandparents Laurence and Caryl Finnegan, aunt Theresa Williams, uncle Larry Finnegan and cousin Chelsea Williams

Memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 20, 2020 at Helke Funeral Home, 302 Spruce Street, Wausau. Visitation will be held from 2:00 pm until the time of the service at the funeral home on Sunday.

"If love could have saved you, you would have lived forever."

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Hope House of Milwaukee, Inc.

http://www.hopehousemke.org/ways_to_give/one-time_donation