Obituary of Derek Ponto

Derek was a rare breed in modern times.  Married young and for 40 years, having 6 children, forced them to be Beatles fans, or least he tried!  Derek was a true gritty Albertan with a genius I.Q., which wouldn’t take long to realize if you spent a bit of time pondering politics or trying to solve a problem.  Derek worked traditionally, outdoor labor in forestry, farming, oil and gas industry veteran, and car salesman in Wetaskiwin.

Derek always stated, “You kids are the proudest thing I’ve done with my life.”   His love for family was beyond compare.

Derek Beverly Ponto passed away at the U. of A. Hospital on August 16, 2019, at the age of 62 years.  He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Laurie.  He will be dearly missed by his children Kandice (Jeff), Kristen, Kamille (Sean), Kaylene, Karsen, and Kevin; grandchildren Romeo, Madilyn, Rylan, and Aliyah, whom Derek loved to bits! Mother Joan (Art) and 3 brothers James, Darren, Christian and his sister Jennifer.  Derek was predeceased by his father Beverly Ponto.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Moose Hall, 4915 - 49 Street, Wetaskiwin, Alberta on Friday, August 30th from 7:00 - 10:00 P.M.   A family interment will take place at the Forestburg Cemetery on Friday, August 30th at 1:00 P.M.  Memorial donations in memory of Derek may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or the Stem Cell Research at the University of Alberta Hospital.