Derek Nelson, born October 29, 1991 left this world Saturday, March 21, 2020 to be with his Father in Heaven. Derek was born in Cypress, Texas. He graduated from Cypress Woods High School in 2010, attended Lone Star college and was currently earning his Criminal Justice Degree from Sam Houston State University.

Derek served in The Texas Army National Guard for 9 years and was still on active duty. He received the following honors: Army Achievement Medal, Army Reserve Component Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, The Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with M Device, Multinational Force and Observers Medal, Driver and Mechanic Badge with Driver-Wheeled Vehicle Clasp.  Derek was recommended for Posthumous Promotion to Sergeant as well as to receive the Army Commendation Medal; these are and were still pending review.

Derek loved serving his country and protecting all around him, which led him to serving as an officer with the Houston Police Department from 2016-2018. Upon graduation from the academy, he was recognized and awarded as the top physical performer in his cadet class.

While he loved serving as an officer, he redirected his interests and was working on a degree in Criminal Justice and was considering Law School after that.

He was currently employed with the Kruk Law firm and was assisting victims of the 2020 Houston explosion and the 3M earplug defects.

He had a passion and huge heart for helping veterans; he wore his passion for veterans on his sleeve and was very vocal about his drive to help. He had a vision and dream of starting a non-profit for victims experiencing Post Traumatic Stress and re-entry into society. Derek's love for his country and his fellow active duty and veteran brothers, was so easily realized once you spent just 5 minutes with him.

Not only was Derek dedicated to his country and fellow service members, he was a dedicated family member and friend to many. Everyone he knew would say the same, He was special unique man who was loved by all, "There isn't a bad bone in that boy!"

There will never be anyone quite like Derek; he was truly one of a kind in his own unique and loving way. His love, smile, laughter, his love to talk and share is why he was loved and loved so many.  He was a true inspiration to his family and those he knew.  He loved golf, sports, and politics and was super silly and funny in only ways that he could be.

He will be greatly missed by his family and friends, and his extended family across the Globe and whose lives he touched. He was proceeded in death by his father Gregory Nelson, and his Grandparents Ray and Helen Nelson. His surviving relatives include his mother Vickie Nelson, his sisters, Lauren and Kristen Nelson, his nephews Gustavo and Elijah Inocencio, his grandparents Bonnie and Elroy Wellmann and his girlfriend, Lauren Gilstrap.  There are too many family members and friends t list but know all of you will be in our hearts.

Heaven gained a great angel in calling Derek home, but we know he has reunited with his father; telling stories, laughing and beginning his journey watching down over us, protecting us every day.

God Speed Soldier, Brother, Son, Friend, until we meet again one day!

I Am With You Always Matthew 28:20