Derek A. Oliver

Derek A. Oliver, 59, of North Anson, passed away on June 7th, 2024 after a period of declining health.  He was a beloved father, “Pupa,” and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Derek was born February 26th, 1965, in Skowhegan, the youngest of five children, to Charles and Elizabeth Oliver.  He graduated from Carrabec High School in 1983 where he ran cross country.  After graduation, he went right to work and never stopped.  He worked several jobs including Frost Cedar Products, Manzer and Dolin Paving, cutting wood in the winter, and helped his elders with various projects around their homes.  Derek was a hard worker no matter what job was in front of him—something he instilled in his sons. He was a perfectionist, especially with grading and carpentry. 

More than anything, Derek was a skilled carpenter.  He loved building and renovating homes, gardening, and helping his elders.  Derek enjoyed working with his hands and being productive.  Most evenings you could find him out in the garage or in the garden while listening to his music.  Gardening was his relaxation, and he was damn good at it.  The house he was living in up until his death was built by himself, Mr. Garnett, and his best friend, Loyd Cole.  This house held a special place in his heart.

If you couldn’t find him working, you could usually find him helping the elderly in town.  Derek was their handyman, lawn care guy, and really enjoyed every minute of helping them.  He was a genuinely kind and caring man with a big heart who was tough as nails.  “Zappa,” as Derek was called, loved to listen to classic rock and earned his nickname because he was always singing a Zappa tune back in the day.

Derek is predeceased by his parents, Charles Oliver and Elizabeth Peters, a brother, and his Uncle Richard.  He is survived by his son, Gary, and fiancé Kaitlyn; his son, Dylan, wife Katy, and their daughters Mackenzie and Eleanor; and his daughter, Jenna, her husband Greg; and brothers Jeff, Tony, and Randy.  He is also survived by close friends, the Cole Brothers (Loyd, Chris, and Bill), Laurie and Eldon McLean, John Dayhoof, as well as many other special friends who meant a lot to him.

Per Derek’s wishes, there will be a private graveside service to be held at a later date.  A celebration of life for close family and friends will be held in July.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to:

NAMI Maine

52 Water Street

Hallowell, Maine 04347

Or at www.namimaine.org/donate

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