Derald Lynn Grasmick, 59, of Rocky Ford, CO, passed away Wednesday, January 16th, in Rocky Ford.

Derald was born in Rocky Ford, CO on August 27, 1959, a son of Marlene Kaye (Black) Walker and the late Donald Lee Grasmick, Sr.

He graduated from Rocky Ford High School.

He was the husband of Susan Jane (Straubel) Grasmick. they were married on June 30, 1981 in Vista, CA.

He was Sales Manager for Arkansas Valley Seeds in Rocky Ford.

Derald was many things for many people. He was a son, brother, husband, veteran, father, cousin and most important a friend for anyone in need. Derald was your best friend if you needed help of any kind, a friend indeed. As a husband he was gentle, kind and caring. He had a special love in his heart for Susan. In fatherhood he was always there, always the example his kids needed, and it was always done with such love. Derald's accomplishments bare his driven, achieving mentality.

Derald served four years in the United States Marine Corps and was selected to serve in a exclusive training program. He was a radio/wireman radio and instructor in those fields. He earned a good conduct medal and a Meritorious Mast and had a letter of appreciation. He was also an expert marksman. He met his future wife on the rifle range. He earned an Honorable Discharge as a SGT.

After Derald left the service he came back to his hometown of Rocky Ford with his wife. He worked a variety of jobs, all requiring different skill sets. Next came the children, for which he was a loving and caring father and an excellent example. He was proud of his children and their achievements. Derald was most proud to have seven grandchildren, all of whom he had a special love and joy for. He would endlessly spoil his grandchildren, always a lollipop on hand.

Derald operated a successful landscaping and home improvement business for many years, although he would be most proud of his time spent at Ark Valley Seeds. He was always willing to lend his skills to others with need. He always took the up-most care of his family, always making everyone proud. As an older adult, he met Ret. Col Clyde Moore. Derald and Clyde shared a brother-like bond, with Derald becoming his caretaker as well as his best friend.

Derald had many hobbies; as varied as the man himself. A young Derald played baseball, football and played his trumpet in a band and the jazz band. As a young adult Derald was an avid sportsman; hunting and fishing at any chance. He also enjoyed bowling and his team won the state championship once. Western movies were always a top choice for a late night movie. He was an avid reader. He enjoyed singing in the choir and was a Sunday school teacher for many years. Derald enjoyed working outdoors and especially with his hands, with a particular fondness for landscaping and husbandry. Sunflowers were his favorite flowers. It was Derald and his wife Susan that so vastly improved their forever home, doing tasks ranging from replacing the roof, to digging up sewer lines and everything in-between. All while closely following anything Broncos. Derald was also one of the many veterans that was responsible for putting up the flags around town throughout the year.

Derald was and forever will be an amazing example. His compassion, wisdom, integrity, leadership was all rolled into a witty ball of humor. He was a valued member of our community. Derald was many things to many people over his years, but the thing Derald will be most of all is missed.

He is survived by His mother; Marlene Walker of Stuarts Draft, VA Wife Susan of the home; Son Kevin (Katy McCormick) Grasmick, of La Junta, CO; Daughter Jessie (Robert) Montoya, of La Junta, CO; Brother Donald Lee (Anna) Grasmick, Jr., of Jacksonville, FL; Sister Beverly (Rick) Taylor, of Stuarts Draft, VA.

He is also survived by 7 grandchildren: Kenzie, Nathan, Zoey & Nicholas Grasmick; Gabriel, Grace & Gordon Montoya. Special Friend Retired Colonel Clyde Moore; 2 nieces and 1 nephew.

Derald was preceded in death by his father.