REGINA - Shock and sadness has been the prevailing reaction from throughout the Regina community to news of the death of Regina Walsh Acres MLA Derek Meyers.
It was announced Tuesday that Meyers, a first-term MLA and former longtime sports anchor at Global Regina, had died of cancer at age 45. Following that announcement, the Legislature sitting recessed immediately and a book of condolence was set up inside the Legislature.
Today, the Legislature sitting will resume at 1:30 p.m. with statements of condolence by Premier Scott Moe and by Opposition Leader Carla Beck, followed by statements by members. There will be no Question Period today.
Flags have been flying at half mast at the Legislature since news of Meyers’ passing Tuesday.
Meyers’ passing has also been observed elsewhere in the city. At Regina City Hall’s Executive Committee meeting on Wednesday morning, councillors and city officials were seen wearing black in remembrance of Meyers.
Reaction has continued to pour in on social media and elsewhere from the political, sporting and other communities. Here is a sample of the thoughts shared about Meyers.
CKRM radio personality Sean Kleisinger:
I am thinking of Derek Meyers tonight.
Scrolling through our old text messages from when he was a @sportscage contributor. He was a very kind soul. Emotional evening. I can’t imagine how his friends and family feel. I wish them all strength and fortitude.
Love you, Duke.
Arash Madani, Sportsnet:
Very sad news.
Meyers cared a ton about local sports and the athletes and stories in them. Would not hold back when criticism was warranted with the pros.
Enjoyed our radio segments, and tête-à-têtes back in the day.
Rest easy, Derek.
Kelly Remple:
Just learned my dear friend of many years, Derek Meyers, has died from cancer @ age 45. Last I saw Derek was a few months ago when my daughter's cheer team was honored in the Legislator. I was so proud when they announced Ainsley's name, & Derek gave a loud "whoo hoo". I am numb.
Former Roughrider and CJME commentator Belton Johnson:
Condolences to my friend Derek Meyers family and friends!!! You always had a way of making me laugh and smile…
Regina Pats:
The Regina Pats are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Saskatchewan legislative member and former sports broadcaster Derek Meyers at just 45 years old.
Myers covered sports in our province for nearly 10 years at Global TV and played a key role in providing coverage of the Pats during our playoff runs from 2014-2016.
On behalf of the Pats, we send our heartfelt condolences to his friends and family, including children Dayn, Sebastian, Eisley and his partner Laurie.
REAL District:
We are deeply saddened by the loss of our friend and colleague Derek Meyers. He was a champion of community and supporter of the many events we hosted. Our condolences to his family, his many friends and loved ones.
Tony Playter, Regina Chamber of Commerce:
A very sad day as we lost our friend Derek Meyers. You could always count on "Duke" to greet you with a smile and a positive message. He will be missed. My condolences to his family and many friends. #RIP
Economic Development Regina:
Derek Meyers was a true Regina hero - Community Builder, Mental Health Advocate, Storyteller. Regina is a better place for his short time with us.
While we celebrate all he accomplished, our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who he touched.
SUMA:
We at SUMA are saddened to hear of the passing of MLA Derek Meyers. We send our condolences to his friends, family, and colleagues during this difficult time.
Regina Sports Hall of Fame:
On behalf of Regina Sports Hall of Fame, we send our heartfelt condolences to the friends and family of Derek Meyers, including his children Dayn, Sebastian, Eisley, and his partner Laurie. Derek was a great supporter of the Hall and our sports community. 💔
Regina Food Bank:
Derek Meyers cared deeply about our food bank & the people we serve. He showed up & leaned in w/ humility & kindness every time we called upon him. He felt profound purpose in service to our community.
We’re grieving our friend & wishing our heartfelt condolences to his family.
YWCA Regina:
Derek was a wonderful friend to YWCA Regina. We could always count on Derek to show up. Whether it was to attend any, or in most cases, ALL, of the events around our community, or add his voice to advocating for programs and services, Derek was there.
Regina Police Chief Evan Bray:
A true loss for our community. Sad to hear we have lost Derek Meyers. A true community champion and leader...
Condolences to Laurie and kids and all of Derek’s friends. #RIP
Michael Kram, MP, Regina Wascana:
I am deeply saddened by the passing of my friend, Derek Meyers, MLA for Regina Walsh Acres. My thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family during this difficult time.
Nathan Cooper, MLA Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills, Alberta.
Albertan’s hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of Derek Meyers, MLA for Regina Walsh Acres. Alberta and Saskatchewan have deep ties. My deepest sympathies go out to Derek's family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.
Nadine Wilson, Leader, Saskatchewan United Party:
I am deeply sorry to hear about the passing of Derek Meyers, MLA for Walsh Acres; a colleague of mine who I had the pleasure of working with.
I knew Derek as an intelligent, compassionate family man. My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Laurie and their young children.
Saskatoon-Willowgrove MLA Ken Cheveldayoff:
Today I lost an amazing colleague and a true friend. Derek, you will be so greatly missed by our team.
Yorkton MLA Greg Ottenbreit:
A great friend and colleague and an amazing man…and office neighbour…
Godspeed bruther
We miss ya already
Rest peacefully, my friend and God grant your family and all whose lives you touched with His comfort .
