Thinking back on all of the incredible years I got to spend with Derek, it's impossible to think of anything besides all of the laughs and good times we shared. Whether it was during long hours of rehearsal or hanging out with "squad" or learning how to tie our Converse so we could just slip them on, or even the pre-show ritual of "eggs and steak," everything was memorable. Derek and I had a lot in common when it came to our passions: choir, theatre, and photography. Not to mention both of our competitive spirits, which leads to one of my favorite memories.

Last year on 4/20, squad spent the day together and went geocaching. We were on PSU campus across from the Weede looking for a geocache with the hint "above your head." Most everyone in our group had given up on finding this specific geocache, but Derek and I refused to quit until we found it. So, it turned into a competition of who could find it first, we were climbing in trees and looking through bushes until finally we both spotted it in a pine tree (sorry for the spoiler of where it's located). We both felt so accomplished after finding it, it was great. 

I'll never forget our long hours of dance rehearsal, the only thing getting us through being his happy spirit and jokes and of course Horton's pizza. Our excitement and squealing when we found out that "Band Geeks" was chosen to perform at conference and our dancing around backstage before our performance at conference. Derek acting as our captain "Graylag" and leading us in a wild goose chase. Or Derek rocking the boat in "Guys and Dolls" and getting the girl in "Loserville."

My life is forever changed for the better because of his existence. Thank you for being in my life since I can remember, Derek. "How rare and beautiful it truly is that we exist," your existence truly was beautiful and always will be. Your legacy will live on forever.

-PHS Theatre Student