In Loving Memory of my Mother, Fran Derkson

My name is Daniel, and I’m Fran’s son. There aren’t many words that feel right in a moment like this, but I want to honour my mother’s memory in the best way I can. I’m asking for support to raise money for research into the disease that took her from me far too soon, with the hope that others might be spared what my family has gone through over these past 10 months.

Watching my strong, beautiful mother slowly lose her ability to move, speak, and even eat is something no one should ever have to witness—least of all her son at such a young age. There was something unbearably cruel about the cards she was dealt. Even her doctors could only say it was “just bad luck.” But how do you find closure in that? She did nothing to deserve such a vile disease.

The proceeds from this fundraiser will go to Dr. Petrecca at the Montreal Neurological Institute, brain cancer research and to our amazing caregiver George Adikibe-nana, who founded GCVSI, a nonprofit that-supports palliative care patients and their families to navigate difficult times.

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After a courageous battle on Saturday, August 23, 2025. Loving mother of Jeremy Schrier, Daniel Schrier and Stefanie Andena. Dear sister and sister-in-law of Tammi Derkson and Dominic Colavecchio, and Jodi Derkson. Incredible aunt of Zachary Colavecchio and Eliane Lagrange, Rachelle Colavecchio and Brandon Cummings. Fran will be missed by her family, friends, and all those who knew her. Special thanks to Dr. Kevin Petrecca and the nurses and staff at the Montreal Neurological Institute. Much gratitude to George Adikibe-nana, who took exceptional care of Fran and her entire family during this difficult time. 

Funeral service from Paperman & Sons, 3888 Jean Talon St. W., on Tuesday, August 26 at 1:00 pm.