Transformative Learning through Death

In the early morning hours of February 27, 2019, Derek Rivers (age 46) passed away quietly, after an 11-year hard-fought battle with cancer.

A native of San Antonio, he was a main-stay in the local metal music scene. Spanning the course of over three decades, Derek played with enthusiasm and a ton of heart with numerous bands, including Prototype, Hod, DSFA, Hedgehog, and his most recent band, La Sanche. Derek enjoyed traveling and attending concerts, band festivals, and movie conventions. When he traveled, he always looked for items he knew his son, mother, or friend would treasure, and he delighted in surprising them with a special gift. His mother always received chocolates plus a souvenir. His talent, wealth of knowledge, passion for music, movies, and life in general, along with his kind and gentle spirit will be sorely missed. Derek led a life of uncompromising optimism. His pain was never so great as to diminish his hope, to discourage his goals, or to steal his smile. And what a beautiful smile! Derek’s capacity for kindness was matched equally by his deep commitment to family and friends. There were no strangers in his life because anyone he met immediately became his friend. Both kindness and commitment seemed to come easy for him. If you were his friend, you could always “go to the door” –and it would open – day or night. He loved his family and friends and kept in close contact with them with phone calls, visits, and inviting them to join him in activities he knew they would enjoy. Birthdays and holidays were always remembered in a special way. He was thoughtful, sentimental, considerate, and had an amazing memory. He leaves behind a legacy of true integrity, courage, love, compassion, generosity, and acceptance.

He worked at the San Antonio International Airport for over two decades and leaves behind his “work” family at Gervin’s.

He is preceded in death by his father, Alexander Rivers, and his grandparents, Chris and Lula Porter. He is survived by his mother, Glenda Rivers, son, Forest Rivers and daughter-in-law Siena, his flame of 18 years, Alecia, his beloved fur babies, Chestnut and Quigley, and many friends, fans, and honorary brothers and sisters.