Darek Pederson, aged 47, of Blaine, MN passed away in the early morning hours on March 19th, 2024. Darek was born March 9th, 1977 to Richard and Joy Pederson and was the youngest of four children.

Darek played hard and worked hard. He grew up in St. Francis and became involved in sports at the age of 10 with wrestling. He wrestled for the Gladiators Wrestling Club, and on the Middle and High School teams. He also played football for the Quarterback Club and on the Middle School team until a knee injury ended his time on the football field. During most of High School he worked at the Rum River Tree Farm. He graduated from St. Francis High School in 1996 and went to work in construction.

In 2004 his greatest love, his whole world, and he would say his greatest accomplishment entered his life: his beautiful daughter Graycey Jo. It was his mission in life to make sure Graycey was loved and had everything he knew his little girl deserved. Every time he talked about her his face beamed with pride. Graycey has been flooded with messages from family and friends telling her how much he loved her. His legacy will forever live on in her heart.

He began working at Northland Concrete and Masonry on 9/16/2011 and later became a Concrete Foreman. He loved his job (except when it was -30°) and had a great respect for his fellow laborers. Family gatherings were always filled with stories from work. The hard work and hours put in and, of course, the pranks that were pulled on one another. The guys at Northland will tell you he was a Rockstar and a true friend.

Darek possessed a remarkable sense of humor and a heart as vast as the Minnesota sky. His infectious smile could brighten even the darkest days. We deeply mourn his loss and will forever cherish the memories of our time with him. He was also the best brother anyone could ask for. Throughout his life, he shared a special bond with his siblings, and his presence brought joy and laughter to their lives. Until we meet again, Darek, you will remain one of a kind in our hearts.

Darek is survived by his daughter Graycey Jo Pederson, brothers Richard T. (Angela) Pederson, Allen (Heidi) Pederson, sister Pamela (Dennis) Muehlbauer, nephews Dalton (Kaylee Spanjer) Pederson, Garret Pederson, Ethan Rorman, Nickolas Pederson, nieces Crystal Muehlbauer, Sara Pederson, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his parents Richard A. Pederson and Joy Pederson, sister-in-law Diane Pederson, nephew Travis Pederson, uncles Terry Stenson, Timothy Stenson, and Edward Pederson.

Celebration of Life will be held on March 30th, 11am -3pm

Lindstrom Community Center
13292 Sylvan Avenue
Lindstrom, MN 55045