Dad killed in horrific accident had just beaten cancer and ‘wanted to make the best of life’

A DAD who died in a tragic traffic accident had just beat cancer, his mother revealed.

Derek George Millar, 42, lost his life after a crash on Newton Road in Carnoustie, Angus, in the early hours of Sunday.

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His mother Anne has described Derek, who is originally from Fintry, Dundee, as a “fantastic son”, reports The Courier.

She said: “He was a ray of sunshine and made everything better.

“He was recently recovering from throat cancer and wanted to make the most of his life. He was always there for his friends and family.

“We’re originally from Fintry and he moved to Carnoustie a few years ago.

“He loved the city, usually he would meet up with his dad or his buddies for a beer.”

Derek’s family had previously revealed that he had raised his two children after their mother’s death.

Anne said Derek – an electrician – “loved football” and helped coach youngsters at Carnoustie Panmure.

She added: “He wanted to be busy every minute of his life.
“He enjoyed walking his dog and also went skydiving a few times.

“Everyone loved Derek. He always helped everyone and left you with a smile.”

Derek’s Volkswagen Golf collided with the perimeter wall of a property.

After the alarm was raised at around 2:50 a.m., emergency services rushed to the scene of the accident.

But unfortunately Derek could not be saved and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

His heartbroken family posted an emotional tribute, hailing him as a “beautiful soul.”

The statement read: “Our lives and hearts are shattered following the loss of our beloved Derek, who was tragically taken from us on Sunday morning. Derek was a father of two who raised his children after the death of their mother.

“Derek was a beautiful soul who was loved dearly by all who knew him. He touched many hearts in his hometown of Carnoustie.

“Our family is in complete shock at the loss of our beloved Derek, who was taken from us far too soon, especially having recently survived cancer.

“The grief left by Derek’s death will last forever.”

Scotland Police sergeant William Strachan from the Tayside Road Policing Unit said the police investigation into the accident was ongoing.

He said: “Our thoughts remain with Derek’s family and friends at this difficult time.

“Our investigation is ongoing and we are appealing to anyone who was in the area and witnessed the crash or has information that can help, and who has not yet spoken to officials, to come forward.”

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