FALMOUTH – Edward “Eddie” Wyatt Derhak, born Nov. 2, 1998, in Portsmouth NH, died of suicide on May 19, 2024, after a ten year battle with mental illness. He was the son of Robert Derhak and Rebecca Childs Derhak.

Eddie was a brave soul with a huge heart and touched the lives of countless people. ‘Eddie hugs’ were the BEST and often entailed being squeezed tightly and lifted off your feet, regardless of your size or stature. A hug from Eddie just made you feel better. It may be the strongest and most cherished memory that he left behind for all of us.

Eddie attended Falmouth Maine Schools. He was a talented trombonist in the middle school jazz band that won the state championship. A graduate of Baxter Academy, he attended USM for a year. A competitive swimmer, he made it to states in his final year, while battling and overcoming daily panic attacks and depression. An avid gamer, in high school, he and his friend designed, developed, produced and sold a board game, Arena of the Elders. He continued to develop games his entire life.
Eddie also participated in boy scouts. Highly regarded and looked up to by his fellow scouts, he was voted troop leader and mentored many scouts in the process. He was extremely proud of earning his mentor pin from his brother Zach.

In recent years, Eddie became dedicated to weight training, and felt his best when he was in the Gym working out with his best friend Tyler. His most recent accomplishment was a bench press of 275 lbs. He also enjoyed playing D&D, the freedom of riding his motorcycle, watching his sister Emma’s band Leaf perform, his collection of amphibians, especially his ‘pet’ frog Beef, and a large aquarium filled with exotic fish.

More than anything, Eddie just loved being around and talking with his family and friends. He was always the main motivator and greatest supporter for any gathering or endeavor that included the people he knew and loved. He was known for organizing epic parties and his ability to bring people together. Blessed with an amazing intelligence, limitless imagination, and photographic memory, there was no one who could match his heart and humor, boisterous voice, and love of math and music.

Eddie is survived by his parents; and his beloved brother and sister, Zach and Emma. He is also survived by his grandmother Ellen Childs; many aunts, uncles and cousins; estranged wife, Sydney; and too many friends to list.

His family wishes to extend thanks and gratitude to anyone who loved Eddie and was kind to him. His battle with mental illness scared some people, but the people who understood him and loved him were truly amazing. We will miss him dearly, but take comfort in knowing that he is finally at peace.

Donations can be made in kindness to anyone who is struggling with mental illness, and hug someone tightly to carry on

Eddie’s memory



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