A Celebration of Life for Derek Munz

Derek Anthony Munz was born on October 3rd, 1969 and began his journey to the spirit world on December 26th, 2019. He was a member of the Bay Mills Indian Community (Gnoozhekaaning) and preceded in death by his mother, Rebecca Ann Munz (Teeple). He is survived by his father Paul, his sisters Tamie, Mia, and Casey. He leaves behind a lifetime friend, former partner, and housemate Jason, a spoiled step-pitbull named Gryphon, a partner Glenn, and many many friends and coworkers. He was one of a kind, with a big heart, and a generous soul.  Derek was known by many people and by many names.  Some in the furry community knew him as Rotty, others knew him by the characters he created online in games, but he was family to those of us who cared about him.   Derek passed away on December 26th from a heart attack.  His housemate and long time friend Jason was there when he passed and has been taking care of arrangements for services, but Jason needs help and is the kind of person who hates to ask for help. We are planning a celebration of life to be held on February 2nd, 2020 at McMenamins Kennedy School in Portland, Oregon.   I will be posting more about that event on here, but the money raised here will help to cover that event, as well as support Jason as he manages Derek's affairs going forward.  Derek did not leave behind a will, and because his family is in the midwest, a lot of these coordinations have fallen to Jason and his family.  Derek's tribe has been very generous in covering the funeral expenses and the cremation expense, for which we are all very appreciative and grateful.   My hope is that helping offset Jason and his family's covering of the celebration of life/memorial out of his own pocket.  If you can donate, anything would help.  Derek was a friend to so many that it seemed like he would have wanted to have his friends eat and drink and be happy, rather than sorrowful.  Derek lived his life at full speed, and he will be missed greatly.  I will also post updates to this as to the time of the event as it gets closer.