Derek A. Monsen

Derek A. Monsen, 38, of Stow, passed away on Tuesday, May 9, 2017. He was the beloved son of Doreen Ruth Veracka.

Born in Concord, Massachusetts on July 15, 1978, Derek was raised and educated in Stow. He worked as a crane operator for many years.
Derek had a heart of gold and a passion for helping people that were less fortunate. He enjoyed processing firewood and playing video games. He loved to fish in the ocean, which gave him peace and felt like home. Derek was an animal lover not only to his two dogs Andrea Gail and Pork Chop, but also to Stinky, the baby skunk he rescued after it had been hit by a car.

He is survived by his mother Doreen Ruth Veracka of Stow; his grandmother Priscilla Mae Veracka of Stow; his aunts, uncles and cousins; and his close friends Rob, Austin and Kristen.

Family and friends will gather to honor and remember Derek on Friday, May 19, 2017 from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at the Fowler-Kennedy Funeral Home, 42 Concord Street, Maynard. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, which will support its wildlife conservation programs and activities, Attn: Field Headquarters, 1 Rabbit Hill Road, Westborough, MA 01581.