Obituary of Thomas Derk Golden

Thomas Derk Golden, passed peacefully on Sunday March 19th, 2023 after his long courageous battle against Alzheimer’s. 

 

Thomas Derk Golden was born on April 25th, 1955 to Charles Thomas Golden and Billie Faye Golden in San Luis Obispo, California. He grew up in Burien,Washington until 7th grade when his family relocated to Houston, Texas. 

His Sophomore year they moved back to Burien, Washington where he attended Highline High School for his Sophomore, Junior and Senior Year. Derk was an outstanding athlete and while at Highline he received the most outstanding football player award and was captain of the football team for both his Junior and Senior year. Derk graduated in 1973 after receiving a football scholarship and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from WSU.

Derk loved all sports but baseball was his passion! He played Little League, Pony, Colt League, High School, Babe Ruth and Semi Pro. As an adult he played for the Mudhens and was on the Boeing Baseball Team. 

Derk worked 23 years for Boeing in both Administration and as a Staff Analyst on various projects. He also operated and owned his own company “Golden Moments Productions” that specialized in videography for weddings and special events.

Derk had many interests including sports, music, biking, camping, computers, videography and traveling.

Derk is survived by his wife Shari Golden, his father Charles Thomas Golden, a sister Cynthia Anderson and husband Mike, a brother Tracy Golden and wife Patti, daughters Christie Golden and husband Brandon Grisham, Angela Gratz and husband Jon along with 6 grandchildren, 3 nieces Ashley Anderson, Amber Anderson, Billie Golden, 1 nephew Jess Golden and 2 aunts Donna Dobos and Pamela Casey. Derk is preceded in death by his mother Billie Faye Golden.

Derk was a wonderful husband, son, brother and father. He will be remembered as an incredible athlete, for his great sense of humor and his love for family and friends. As a family we feel blessed that we had so many wonderful years and memories to cherish forever.

 

“Though I know I’ll never lose affection

For people and things that went before

I know I’ll often stop and think about them

In my life, I love you more”

The Beatles 

 

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

There will be no service, as a family we choose to rejoice in the Celebration of his Life.

 

 

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