Derek Hoover

Derek Gavin Hoover, 42, of Cape Girardeau died Saturday, July 22, 2017.

He was born Feb. 22, 1975, in Chaffee, Missouri, to M. Wayne and Beverly Jean Wille Hoover.

The family is grieving the loss of its gentle Derek, who was loved by many.

He was an avid reader and lover of music and art especially. Derek was a talented artist and expressed his love of art in his many paintings, drawings and sculptures.

Another way he expressed his talent was through his poems and music. He often was seen with his guitar or harmonica, playing tunes. Derek was simply a cool dude who had a quick wit and loved to make people laugh.

Derek will be remembered most of all for his heart of gold. Giver, loyal, humanitarian, funny, pet lover, father. He loved other people and wanted to share whatever he had accumulated with them, such as his knowledge, talent, lessons learned, treasures or money.

He saw the beauty in everything and had a unique view of the world, which showed in his art.

He was humble until the end and ignorant of his talents, preferring to create for himself or others close to him. It was only after family insistence that he sold some of his art locally.

Derek Gavin, a gentle soul who was kind to anyone in need. He will be greatly missed, but his loved ones are comforted knowing he is in the loving arms of the Lord, surrounded by his border collies, Sophie, O'Malley and Bishop, and at complete peace.

Rest in peace, sweet Derek, until we meet again.

Survivors include his parents, M. Wayne and Beverly Jean Hoover of Cape Girardeau; daughter, Zoey Gibson of Fruitland; sister, Monica B. Lummus of Eureka, Missouri; brother, Barrett C. Hoover of Cape Girardeau; nephews, Jeremy Lummus and Brennen Lummus of Eureka; and niece, Savannah Lummus of Eureka.

Visitation will be from noon to 2 p.m. today at Christ Episcopal Church, 101 N. Fountain St. in Cape Girardeau.

A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. at the church, with the Rev. Edith Bird officiating.

Memorial contributions may be given to Community Counseling Center.

Online condolences may be made at fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.

Ford and Sons Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.