DERKA, David L.

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona ~ 05/03/2013 David L. Derka, 72, went to be with the Lord April 29, 2013, at his home in Nutrioso. He was born in Chicago, Ill., the son of Andrew and Gladys Derka. David served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1957-59 in Fighter Squadron 23. He retired as a supervisor from Salt River Project in 1990. David was a wonderful family man, avid fisherman and bowler; a great husband and father. He is survived by his wife Jean Derka of Nutrioso; sons: David (Melissa) of Mesa and Wayne (Lori) of Queen Creek; daughters Teresa (Joel) of Show Low, Brenda (Dave), Wendy (David) and Beth, all of Mesa; sisters June, Rita, Darlene, Carol and Sharon; 18 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. David was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Nancy and Patsy and brother Jack. John 14:1-3: Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. A graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, June 1, at the Nutrioso Cemetery. A reception will follow at the Nutrioso School House. Burnham Mortuary of Eagar handled arrangements. Send an online condolence at www.burnhammortuary.com.