Derek Peter Vandermerwe

life story

A loving husband, father & Pastor to many

Life is Temporary, Life is Preparatory.

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

~~2 Timothy 4:7~~

A Man & His Ministry

Derek was born in Pretoria South Africa one of seven siblings. He was part of the South African Air Force and an Engineer by trade until the day he met his Savior and heard the words, "Life is Temporary, Life is Preparatory". This phrase impressed upon his heart, caused him to know he had a call and it wasn't engineering.

Following his commitment, Derek dedicated over 65 years to serving the Lord Jesus Christ. He was a pastor to many, equipping them to live a sanctified, transformed life leading others to their Lord and Savior.

Derek spent the first half of his ministry in South Africa, his homeland as well as Zimbabwe, Botswana & Mozambique. Then in 1985 he felt called to the United States of America where he continued the latter half of his ministry. Even though Derek was pastoring in the USA, his heart never left Africa. He continued to go back to the African Church equipping the leadership to shepherd their flocks.

Derek had a heart to raise up young ministers to pass the baton. He taught Bible School and mentored many young men whom he called his "Timothys". He was passionate to reproduce the seed that the Lord placed in his heart.

Derek loved his multigenerational family from Africa to the USA. He enjoyed getting down on the floor playing with the little ones stirring up many giggles.

memorial service

Celebration of Life

January 15, 2022

Hope Community Church 19951 Oswald Farm Rd, Rogers, MN 55374, USA

Reception from 10:00 - 11:00 am

Celebration of Life 11:00 am

Luncheon following the service