Nicholas Adam Dereschuk

Nicholas Adam Dereschuk
December 15, 1986 – June 4, 2025

Nicholas "Nick" Dereschuk, age 38, of Stacy, Minnesota, passed away on June 4, 2025, in St. Paul. His final moments were peaceful, surrounded by love, prayer, the presence of angels, with his mother holding his hands as he was received into the arms of his Lord and Savior.

Born on December 15, 1986, in St. Paul, Nick was a son, brother, father, and friend whose life exemplified both profound struggle and deep faith. He graduated from Hill-Murray High School, where he developed a strong appreciation for literature, including the Bible. His passion for writing led to the publication of his poem about Wayne Gretzky in the 2001 anthology *The Path Into The Light* by the International Library of Poetry.

Nick’s love of country and admiration for his Dereschuk elders who served led to his time in the U.S. Army. He enlisted between his junior and senior year of high school and completed Basic Combat Training at Fort Jackson from June to August 2005. Excelling in both physical and marksmanship skills, he earned recognition as second in his platoon for running and received the “Eagle Eye” award for his shooting. He continued his Advanced Individual Training at Fort Bragg and Fort Irwin in 2006. Though circumstances prevented him from pursuing full-time active duty, he served in the Army Reserves until his discharge in 2009. His time in uniform was a period of pride and purpose, when his eyes and smile reflected his inner strength and joy.

Nick found joy in the outdoors when he was able—deer hunting and fishing brought him peace. He made excellent deer jerky and pickled walleye that even his dad loved. He owned chickens and ducks at one time and they all knew their names! These moments of connection with nature were treasured.

Though not always practicing outwardly, Nick revered his Catholic upbringing and held firm to his faith in Christ, often engaging in deep theological conversations not only with friends and family but also with the unsuspecting stranger open to dialogue. Two possessions he cherished were his camouflage bible from Val and a rosary Grandma Bonnie had given him prior to BCT.

Nick’s life was marked by hardship. He battled mental health challenges and chemical addiction throughout his adult years. Despite these struggles, he experienced seasons of stability and hope and remained loved by his family and friends. He was a prodigal son whose journey was guarded by faith and the unwavering prayers of those who held him close in heart.

A horrific accident on August 14, 2024, left Nick paralyzed and with a severe traumatic brain injury. Even then, his spirit endured. He continued to trust in the Lord and believed he would walk again. Inspired by his dear friend and mentor George Bonfe—a paraplegic who had long been a source of strength—Nick remained hopeful. Their bond was forged through shared experiences, including a hunting trip through a veteran’s organization at Camp Ripley and time spent working on George's home projects or simply enjoying each other’s company.

Though Nick faced many battles—some lost half-heartedly, others with all his might—his final days were filled with grace. He entered hospice care on May 30, 2025, received Last Rites on May 31 while awake and praying with family, and passed peacefully on June 4. His family believes that a modern miracle confirmed his salvation that very afternoon.

Nick is survived by parents, Greg and Val; sisters and brothers-in-law, Jessica (Lester) McDaniel and Alexandra (Evan) Arakawa; his cherished son, Drake; his beloved great aunt & uncle Tom and Audrey Webber—whom he especially adored—and many other aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and steadfast friends who remained by his side throughout life’s trials.

He is preceded in death by his brothers Mikhail (August 10, 1993 – December 5, 2020) and baby Michael (July 9, 1992); grandparents Nick & Bonnie Dereschuk; Bob & Sandy Vaught; great-grandparents Cliff & Ruth Nadeau; and inspirational friend George Bonfe.

A public visitation will be held for those wishing to say goodbye or offer support to Nick’s family. The decision to hold this gathering came from the recognition that many may want to make peace or honor Nick’s memory in person.

May Nicholas now rest in eternal peace—his suffering ended, his soul redeemed. His journey was not easy, but it was real. And in the end, it led him home. A Funeral Mass, burial & luncheon will be held on October 25, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at St. Gregory the Great Church 38725 Forest Blvd. Visitation starts at 9am. Burial will take place immediately after mass, in Forest Lake. Luncheon to follow burial back at St. Gregory's church.
NOTE: Please share your memories, a story or photo on Legacy.com with us.