Derek Sleater Cook

Derek Sleater Cook, brother, uncle, cousin, mentor, and friend passed away December 5th, 2025 at the age of 63, in Salt Lake City, Utah.

He was born July 2nd, 1962 to Donald Victor Cook and Nancy Lynne Sleater Cook in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Derek was proceeded in death by his parents. He is survived by his four siblings: Laurie Cullimore (Kelvyn), Todd Cook, Cami Cromar (Joseph), Carrie Wagstaff (Mike), foster sister, Lori Mannie, and many nieces and nephews.

Derek was truly one of a kind— creative, expressive, and the undeniable life of the party.

A devoted fan of the Olympic Games, he was thrilled and proud to have attended the Atlanta, Salt Lake City, and Paris Olympic Games.

A gifted writer, Derek expressed himself through poetry and through life itself. He lived boldly and authentically openly navigating life with ADHD while serving as a life coach and encourager to many.

Derek had a remarkable passion for Arabian horses and had an amazing talent at horsemanship. He was the US National Champion and Canadian National Champion in Saddle-seat Equitation, as well US National Reserve Champion in Stock-seat Equitation.

Derek graduated from Brighton High School and served as Senior Class President for the Class of 1980. He took that responsibility very seriously and has been involved in organizing the class reunions, including their 45th held in October of this year.

Derek attended Brigham Young University, where he cheered as a BYU yell leader in a role that perfectly matched his enthusiasm and flair. Later in his life he became a devoted University of Utah supporter— and could be described now as “A Utah Man.”

Derek served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Korea, Pusan mission. He enjoyed his experience there and he loved the people of Korea.

Derek loved traveling and working for American Airlines when he was younger, which opened that world for him and gave him many opportunities to connect with people around the world. His desire to travel the world never diminished, and he took advantage of every opportunity to immerse himself fully wherever he went. He loved people in all their diversity, embracing cultures, learning languages and traditions from around the world. His dream was one world united by understanding and love.

Derek was exceptional at making friends quickly and always made people feel comfortable. He made connections everywhere he went. Every connection had another connection, and every story was intertwined with several other background stories, so you could get the full picture. Derek leaves behind countless stories that family and friends will never forget. These stories capture his adventurous spirit and unforgettable presence.

Derek loved Broadway and Musicals. He knew every lyric and was known to break out into song when the sentiment fit and even when it didn’t. He recently shared his affinity to the musical “Wicked,” which reflected his love for big stories, big emotions, and the feeling of never really fitting in, but always having the dream to do so.

A close family friend shared a quote that feels especially fitting for Derek‘s passing: “Death is putting out the lamp because the dawn has come.”

Derek Sleater Cook lived loudly, loved fiercely, and brought energy wherever he went. His legacy lives on in laughter, stories, creativity, and the countless lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and be remembered for always going above and beyond.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, December 30, 2025 at 11:00 AM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (10945 South 1700 East, Sandy, Utah), immediately followed by a celebration of life in the Cultural Hall until 1:00 PM.

A family interment will take place prior to the funeral at Larkin Sunset Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, you may donate to the Team USA Fund by clicking on the blue tab above that say "In Lieu Of Flowers" or following this link: https://support.teamusa.com/campaign/613472/donate

To view a recording of Derek's service, please click on the blue tab above that says "Watch Services" or follow this link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/GbpEQZsDvU5ibPgjfhaAosY_tiqVMNjJwvzlm_OjfBoRJh-HVAfjyf2INd6-qLXs.OAa9ylkiInRCy6cy?startTime=1767116832000