It is with deep sorrow that we mourn the unexpected passing of our beloved Derek Nicholas Sheaves. Derek passed away October 19, 2023 at the age of 43 where he was surrounded by his loving family.

Derek was born on December 30, 1979 to Larry and Leah (Edgar) Sheaves in Alton, IL. He married the love of his life, Kelly (Keller) Sheaves on November 7, 2015.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Kelly; parents, Larry and Leah (Edgar) Sheaves; siblings, Jennifer (Sean) Pappas and Jared Sheaves; children, Nevaeh, Liberty, Quinn, and Dreyden Sheaves; step-children, Grace, Morgan, Bryar Keller, Christian and Cayla Colby; step-grandson, Walker Alexander; and nieces, Taylor, Madison, and Sophia Pappas. Derek was also expecting his first granddaughter, Blakely Kay Nicole Sheaves, in late November.

He was predeceased by paternal grandparents, Ben and Gertrude Sheaves as well as maternal grandparents, Isaac and Ella Edgar.

Derek was a 1998 graduate of Mendota High School, and later earned his Associate Degree in Fire Science at Sauk Valley Community College. Derek passionately and selflessly worked as a firefighter/EMT for several surrounding fire departments and taught fire sciences at Sauk Valley Community College and Amboy Fire Department for many years. Derek then obtained his Associate Degrees in Cybersecurity and Computer Networking Administration at Illinois Valley Community College. Derek was currently employed at Ingersoll Rand, Princeton division. Derek was a precinct committeeman with the LaSalle County Republicans. He also
enjoyed and supported YANA (You Are Not Alone) as well as the launch of a second YANA organization in Southern DeKalb County. The simplest pleasures brought great joy and peace to Derek's life. He enjoyed fishing, working the dive team for Black Diamond Rescue, the St. Louis Cardinals, serving at New Covenant Assembly of God, and spending time with his family. His life was led by providing, protecting, and loving his family.

A visitation will be held Wednesday, October 25, 2023 from 1-3 p.m. at the Merritt Funeral Home, Mendota followed by a funeral service at 3:00 p.m, officiated by Reverend Earl Wiseman. Cremation rites will follow and private burial will be at a later date.

Memorials may be directed to the family to cover final expenses.