Obituary of Deryck James Walsh

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Deryck James Walsh at the age of fifty-one, on June 26, 2026, in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia.

Deryck was born November 15, 1974, at St. Andrew’s Hospital in Midland Ontario to parents Philip and Patricia (Swan) Walsh.

He spent his childhood growing up in Midland, Mount Forest, Brampton and then Orillia where he graduated from Twin Oaks Secondary School and then continued into post-secondary education to earn his certificate as a personal support worker from Georgian College in 1998. He enjoyed caring for people and was greatly appreciated in his role as a PSW which he held for many years.

From Orillia, Deryck relocated to Guelph Ontario and then with much encouragement from his family he made his biggest move to Bridgewater Nova Scotia.

He was a quiet, gentle soul who despite choosing a career in caring for the senior population, preferred to be surrounded by nature and animals more than people. But for those few who had the privilege of knowing him, knew him to have a good sense of humor, a kind and inquisitive nature and a very warm smile.

He enjoyed a good hockey game, especially cheering for the Toronto Maple Leaf’s and he was also a fan of football and liked the San Fransico 49ers. He had a great memory for keeping player statistics organized and always enjoyed a good conversation in relation to that.

Deryck’s home in Nova Scotia was surrounded by forest, and his yard was visited regularly by local wildlife. His last sighting he enjoyed sharing was that of a deer paying him a visit. Deryck suffered a cardiac event while he slept. We take solace in knowing he passed peacefully in his home surrounded by what brought him the most comfort in life.

He leaves behind his parents Phil and Patti Walsh, his sister and brother-in-law, Shandie and Jack Steeneveld, his nieces and nephew, Abbey, Holly and Jack Steeneveld, his grandmother Cathy Walsh and the extended Walsh family, and his most treasured companion, his beautiful cat Kayla.

His memory will be treasured, and he will be missed beyond words.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, and will be announced once confirmed.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Hope for Wildlife (e-transfer@hopeforwildlife.net Canada only) *To receive a charitable tax receipt via email, please include your full name, mailing address, and email address in the message section of your e-Transfer.