Regina Walsh Acres MLA Derek Meyers dead at age 45

Derek Meyers, a former Regina sportscaster who in 2020 became the MLA for Regina Walsh Acres, has died of cancer.

He was 45.

“Through all of the challenges he faced, Derek remained one of the most upbeat and positive people I have ever met,” Premier Scott Moe said in a tweet Tuesday.

“Since his election in 2020, Derek has been a strong voice for his constituency and the city of Regina, a tireless advocate on behalf of everyone facing mental health challenges and a vital part of our government caucus.

“I am blessed to have known Derek for the short time that I did. We have lost a bright, talented, personable MLA and a young father far too soon.”

Today is a difficult day as we mourn the loss of our friend and colleague Derek Meyers, MLA for Regina Walsh Acres.

Derek passed away at the age of 45 after a battle with cancer.

Through all of the challenges he faced, Derek remained one of the most upbeat and positive people… pic.twitter.com/M9jSwDP5Ln

— Scott Moe (@PremierScottMoe) March 28, 2023

Moe offered his condolences to Meyers’ partner Laurie, his children Dayn, Sebastian and Eisley, and Meyers’ friends.

A book of condolences and flowers were set up in the rotunda at the Legislature for Derek Meyers on March 28, 2023. (980 CJME)

The premier added that flags at the Legislative Assembly will be lowered to half-mast in Meyers’ honour.

The sadness in the Legislative Building was palpable Tuesday, with people in the hallways hugging each other and MLAs with tears on their faces. The day’s business was postponed until Wednesday.

A book of condolences and a photo of Meyers were placed in the rotunda.

NDP Leader Carla Beck echoed Moe’s sentiments, calling Tuesday “a truly devastating day.”

“Our hearts go out to Derek’s family, friends, and colleagues as we all grieve this loss,” Beck tweeted.

Derek was a dedicated advocate for his community, even throughout his diagnosis, and his passion for the betterment of Saskatchewan was admired by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Our deepest condolences go to his partner Laurie and his three children.

— Carla Beck (@CarlaBeckSK) March 28, 2023

According to the Legislative Assembly website, Meyers worked in the southeast Saskatchewan oilfield before moving into the geological exploration and consulting field.

In 2005, he attended NAIT to study television broadcasting, then spent nearly 10 years as a sportscaster at Global Regina. Following that, he was a small business owner in video production services before running for office in 2020.