My deepest sympathies to Pat, Teresa , Denise, Aoibhe, Cole, Cora and to all of the extended Cronin & Cantwell families on the heartbreaking loss of Derek. The phrase “gone too soon” has never been more apt. Derek was simply the kindest, nicest man you could ever meet, in addition to being the most brilliant musician. He could have had an ego the size of Ireland based on his musical brilliance but he was very humble and very nonchalant about his talents. And he was so so funny. ”MoaninCronin” had the best sense of humor. He always made me smile when he walk into a room with his long trench coat flapping behind him and say “how’s it going?”, the word going sounding like it had 10 Os in it. We last saw each other when he was in NYC playing in JackL’s band a couple of years ago. Was a great night with great music and great craic. He hadn’t changed a bit since our college days. Cole and Cora, he was so proud of you both and so proud to be your Dad And Aoibhe, he loved being your husband and the life you had built together. Your wedding was a fantastic day out and the perfect reflection of you both. I was so honoured and delighted to be there. I could go on and on waxing lyrical about Derek for many many MANY more paragraphs but I can hear him saying “alright Mags that’s enough of that!!” Aoibhe, Cole, Cora, Pat, Teresa and Denise, you are all in my thoughts and prayers at this very sad time. Love, Magsxx