Derek Robert Audley, 68, passed away unexpectedly at home on May 11, 2016 from complications of coronary artery disease. He was born in Tulsa on February 28, 1948 to William H. (Bob) Audley and Fée (Fay) Cheminais who each immigrated to the U.S. after WWII. Derek's father's job as a petroleum engineer took the family to many small towns across the northern plains and abroad during his early school years. They lived in the Philippines when Derek was 10, 11 and 12-years-old, then returned to Tulsa. He graduated from Edison High School and earned a degree in printing and graphic arts from OSU.

He loved to retell the story of how he met Cathy Jennemann at the home of mutual friends in 1971. It was two days before Valentine's Day. As they sat across the table from each other while playing the game of Hearts, he looked into her eyes and it was "love at first sight." They were inseparable from that day forward. Derek and Cathy married in 1973 and raised a beautiful family.

Following graduation, Derek served as an instructor at OSU, then general manager, and sales manager for several different types of companies in the printing industry. He decided to take early retirement so he could devote himself to his growing family. He was an exceptional Dad and took great pride in being a father.

He pursued numerous talents and hobbies. He was a skilled woodworker and built a variety of wooden boats including kayaks, canoes and dories. He also designed and built furniture. His culinary interests reached far and wide. He was an excellent chef and connoisseur of fine food. He grew his own herbs and vegetables, and generously shared his culinary creations. He even made kitchen knives and engraved the blades. Working with his hands was both his gift and pleasure. He could fix anything and find a solution for any problem.

He valued his family beyond description. Derek believed his purpose in life was to serve others, and the most frequent recipients of his service were his family and extended family. In the community, he volunteered at his children's schools and taught parenting classes for Child Abuse Prevention Services which became Parent Child Center of Tulsa.

He will long be remembered for being a gifted storyteller, conversationalist, and teacher. He had a creative spirit and was led by his heart. His penchant for teaching, coupled with a broad knowledge of a vast array subjects, made him a fascinating father and friend. This remarkable man will be missed immensely. He has left an enduring legacy.

Derek's wife, Cathy, and children, Elizabeth, Philip and Stuart, were his best friends. His grandchildren were his greatest delight.

He is survived by his sister, Ann Audley; his loving wife, Cathy, and his adoring children and grandchildren: Elizabeth and Dr. Todd Chambers, Lucy, William and Henry Chambers, all of Tacoma, WA; Philip Audley of Tulsa; Stuart, Gulsah and Robert Audley of Gainesville, FL, plus numerous members of the Audley and Jennemann families.

The family is hosting a private tribute to Derek on May 15th. They suggest donations in his honor be made to your favorite charity or the Salvation Army.
FITZGERALD IVY CHAPEL, 918-585-1151