Derek Wethington

Derek F. Wethington, age 66, of Kirtland, NM, passed away August 15, 2024, of complications from gallbladder surgery. He was in his home surrounded by his family. Derek was born on October 26, 1957 in Farmington, New Mexico, to Vera Alene Averett and Martin Edward Wethington. Derek graduated from Kirtland Central High School in 1975, where he met the love of his life, Colleen Flack. Derek married Colleen in 1976. They shared 48 years together and raised three sons, Tyson, Tarren and Treven.

As a young boy, Derek worked alongside his father on the family farm, which instilled in him a very strong work ethic. After graduating high school, Derek worked in the water division for the City of Farmington. After departing from the city, he worked for several utility supply companies. Derek's expertise in the field led him and Colleen to start their own business, C&D Utility Supply Company, which they operated together for 12 years before retiring. Derek also had a talent for drawing and designing house plans, many of which were built throughout the community.

Derek found joy in supporting and watching his sons play all the different sports they enjoyed. He took an active role in the youth sports of our community, from organization and committee work, to fundraisers, and building fields for the youth to play on. He even coached a few teams. Derek's love for sports extended beyond his children, as he enjoyed golfing and playing basketball and softball in both city and church leagues. It is through his church ball friends that his conversion to the gospel began.

Derek was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He had a profound love and testimony of his Savior, which was evident through his active service in various stake and ward callings throughout his life. He was a member of Kirtland First Ward and served as Bishop there.

Derek loved taking road trips with his "Hun," Colleen. After customizing their transit van, they traveled around the country attending Temple open houses, researching family history, visiting family and seeing the sights. In May 2024, Derek and Colleen had a memorable journey along the west coast, up to Seattle, where they enjoyed an Alaskan cruise with their children. Over the last few years, they traveled together in the van to 29 states.

When Derek wasn't traveling, he was busy at home with numerous projects. He kept his creative juices flowing with endless home improvement plans, and could frequently be found outside mowing and irrigating the field.

Derek is survived by his loving wife, Colleen; their three sons, Tyson (Megan) Wethington, Tarren (Brandi) Wethington, and Treven (Mallory) Wethington; 9 grandchildren, Dominic, Sierra, Garrett, Savannah, Cooper, Riley, Trace, Beckett, Griffin; brothers Randy Wethington and Brian (Tobie) Wethington; and stepsister Melissa (Evan) Sandoval. He will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his commitment to serving others, and his genuine kindness.

He was preceded in death by his parents Edward and Vera; brothers Eddy and Marty; baby daughter Tyra.

Derek's family would like to thank the staff of both Farmington Funeral Home and Guardian Angel for their kind, devoted, and sensitive care of Derek throughout this process.

Services will be held on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at 10:00 am at the Kirtland Stake Center, 10 Road 6523, Kirtland, NM. A viewing will be held prior to services from 9:00 am to 9:30 am at the church. Interment will be in the Kirtland Cemetery, 57 Road 6580, Kirtland, NM.