Derek Jacobus

Derek Clarke Jacobus, 43, of Lewistown, IL passed away, Sunday May 6, 2018 at Graham Hospital in Canton after a long year and a half hard-fought battle with cancer. With the support of family and friends by his side, Derek left to be with the Lord. Derek was born on May 3rd, 1975 in Peoria.
He is survived by his father David (Carolyn) Jacobus, brother Aaron (Amy) Jacobus, sister Amy (Curtis) Rushing, sisters Candace (Galen) Hanson and Carrie (Nick) Braden, and brother Derek (Cassie) Juliusson. Also surviving are nieces Blair Jacobus and Peyton Rushing, and nephews Sage and Wyatt Rushing.
While attending Lewistown High School, Derek was an active FFA member, participated in football, basketball, and track, and worked on his family farm. He graduated in 1993. After high school, Derek received his Associates Degree in Ag Science from Spoon River College in 1995. He then followed his dream, and returned to farming.
Derek was an active part of the community serving 10 years as the Fulton County Fair Board Director, was a trustee official for Lewistown township, and President of the Northern Illinois Colt Racing Association.
No secret to the people who loved him, Derek loved life. His uncanny way of seeing things clearly and knowing just what to do helped him succeed in every area of his life. From race horses, to farming, hunting, and agriculture, Derek saw beauty in everything. For those of us left behind we will remember him for his quick smile, hard work, strength, intellect, and his ability to see everything in a positive light. Above all his main priority in life was helping others, bringing him joy to help those in need, whatever that need might be. Derek... you will be greatly missed.
A funeral service will be held on Wednesday May 9, 2018 at 2 p.m. at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Canton. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Memorials may be made out to the St. James Episcopal Church in Lewistown.
To leave online condolences or to view Derek's video tribute, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.