The streets of Draper City were made safer by Sergeant Derek Johnson who loved his job as a police officer for the Draper City Police Department. Understanding the risk, but wanting to protect he gave his life while on duty September 1st, 2013 at the age of 32. He was the recipient of many awards, including Life Saving Award, Distinguished Service Award, and was the 2012 Community Policing Officer of the Year. With a good nature, a sense of humor that could light up any room, attention to detail and the ability to make anyone his friend. He made a difference. He loved his family, hunting, running, hiking and giving service. He was always up for a good challenge.
Derek was born in Salt Lake City, Utah on March 19, 1981. A graduate of Alta High School, Derek married his middle school sweetheart in the Salt Lake Temple on September 29, 2000. They had the joy of their life, Bensen Ray, November 25, 2006, Derek's "little buddy".
Derek is survived by his wife Shante' Sidwell Johnson and their son, Bensen , Randy and Laura Johnson (parents) Siblings: Devin and Diane Johnson, Darin Johnson, Desirae and Derek Payne, Dayson and Addy Johnson, Norma Kunz Johnson (grandmother), Bruce and Christy Sidwell (Parents of Shante'), and many uncles and aunts along with his Police Brothers and Sisters. Preceded in death by grandparents, Bill and LaRue Bauman and Ray Johnson .
Funeral Services will be held on Friday, September 6, 2013 at 11:00 am. The viewings and funeral will be held at theMaverick Center, 3200 Decker Lake Dr West Valley City, UT. Friends may call Thursday, September 5, 2013 from 6:00-9:00 pm. Friday, September, 6, 2013 from 9:00-9:30 am for Draper City Employees and from 9:30-10:45 am for family. Interment at Larkin Sunset Gardens Cemetery. Condolences at www.larkinmortuary.com
Donations my be given for Derek\s family at www.mydadsahero.com.
