This week an accident claimed the life of a Shawano County employee, Derek Stempa.
This column is entitled “Positively Shawano,” but there are some times it is difficult to feel positive when such tragedy hits our community. However, it is during these times of great sadness that the light of love and caring shines its brightest.
Since the tragedy, I have witnessed many acts of kindness and compassion done out of true concern and not for acknowledgment. I won’t go into specifics, but I just want to say it is heart-warming to witness the way the people in our community rally and show their support and love.
For those of you who do not already know, an account has been established at Capital Credit Union. The Shawano office is located at 1305 E. Green Bay St. There are also offices in Green Bay, Appleton and throughout northeast Wisconsin.
Derek left behind a loving wife and two small children.
The community is still in disbelief, and people are trying to cope with the tragedy by talking and consoling one another. I could fill pages with the comments of sorrow and sympathy I have heard. Here are just a few:
Shawano County Officer Joe Verbrigghe commented, “Derek was one awesome guy; if every person had one friend like him, the world would be a far better place.”
A friend from Menominee County, Michael Chapman, sent a message: “Sending your community healing prayers in light of the untimely passing of a county employee.”
Tami Kitzman wrote on social media: “Made a donation today. Wish there was more we could do. Prayers and thoughts from our family to theirs.”
Park and rec director Matt Hendricks said, “My friend Seth Mailahn served in Kuwait with Derek. He told me once how lucky he felt being able to go to work every day with his fellow veteran and best friend.”
On a personal level, Derek’s mother and dad, Jim and Kathy, were our neighbors for several years. We had so many great times together, and my heart goes out to them. I worked with Derek’s aunts, Kathryn Waukechon and Sharon Giese at Citizens Bank for many years. Theirs is a close-knit family, and I can only imagine the loss they are feeling.
On behalf of the city of Shawano, I would also like to express our sorrow to the co-workers of Derek. We know how difficult it is losing someone you worked with every day; someone who was more than just a co-worker. Someone who was also a wonderful friend.
Derek Stempa will live on in the memories of all those who knew him and loved him.
“Life’s Journey”
Life is but a stopping place,
A pause in what’s to be,
A resting place along the road,
To sweet eternity.
We all have different journeys,
Different paths along the way,
We all were meant to learn some things,
But never meant to stay…..
Our destination is a place,
Far greater than we know
For Derek the journey was quicker,
For some the journey is slow.
Now that Derek’s journey ends,
He’ll claim a great reward,
And find an ever lasting peace
Together with his Lord.
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