Obituary of Derle Albert James DeLeavey

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of Derle Albert James DeLeavey on January 2, 2024, at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital in Fredericton, NB. Born October 2, 1937 in Crombie, NB, he was a loving husband, father, grandfather, friend and comrade.

Derle was married to Ruth Elizabeth (nee Burns) for 46 years.  He leaves behind Trudy (Vince Beringhele) California, Wendy Lynn (Paul Honkey) Thunder Bay Ontario, Terryl Lee (Brian Hansen) Victoria British Columbia, Dwayne William Terry DeLeavey of Fredericton New Brunswick and Markie DeLeavey of Glasgow Scotland; grandchildren Dustin DeLeavey, Ryan DeLeavey, Chelsy DeLeavey, DeAndre DeLeavey, Tyler Amaral, Betina Beringhele, and his great granddaughter Nancy Elizabeth Godin.  He is additionally survived by his brothers Wayne (Queenie) DeLeavey, Dallas DeLeavey and Vaughn (Debbie) DeLeavey; sister-in-law Phyllis Burns of St. Stephen; brother-in-law  Allen Burns (Heidi Burns) Woodstock, and many nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his Mother Beatrice DeLeavey and father Albert DeLeavey of Plaster Rock New Brunswick, his son Darren DeLeavey and his brother Dennis DeLeavey.

Derle spent 34 years in the Canadian Armed Forces, enlisting in 1957 in Ottawa Ontario.  He became an Armour Corps soldier with the Strathcona’s, 8^th Canadian Hussars and RCDs.  He was posted throughout his career to Calgary, Gagetown, Petawawa, Lahr Germany and did 2 tours in Cyprus.  He became a tank instructor during the final years of his career at Gagetown and completing his time with Ops Division.  One of his proudest accomplishments was being selected by Brigadier General Jimmy Fox as the unknown solider commemorating the tour in Cyprus in 1962.  There was a silver statue of him made and presently is at the Officers mess in Edmonton.

His love of playing his guitar was always with him but during the last few years his passion grew and had the pleasure of playing with many of the local friends.  To each of you Dee spoke highly about being there for him and standing by his difficult time.  Thank you to all who has had an influence and have been a part of Dee’s life’s journey.

Dee was extremely athletic and participated heavily in ball, hockey, basketball, volleyball, bowling, curling, and track and field during his military career.  After retiring he took up golfing and gardening which he greatly enjoyed doing with his wife Ruth.

During the past few years Derle had the opportunity to see all of his children and it brought much joy to him.  He often cried when he reflected on them or came to visit and had to leave.  Many times he would say “wonder what they are doing”, “have they called today”, and “miss them so much”.

His heart-felt love for his wife was immeasurable and was by her side enjoying their journey of marriage.

A visitation will be held Monday, January 8, 2024, at the Oromocto Funeral Home from 10:00 am to 12:45 pm. A tribute by The Royal Canadian Legion #93 will follow at 12:45pm. A memorial service will take place the same day at 2:00 pm in the Oromocto Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Donald McCarty officiating. For those unable to attend the service, a livestream will be available at the following link: https://vimeo.com/event/3997844. In the case of technical difficulties, a recording will be made available the following day. A private family committal will take place following the service.  Please join the family for a reception at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #93, 284 Restigouche Rd, Oromocto, NB, begining at 4:00 pm. For those who wish, donations in Dee's name may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.