Derek Kaunelis

Derek Kaunelis, age 44, of Livonia, Michigan, passed away on April 29, 2022 after a 1 year battle with stomach cancer. Derek was born on August 8, 1977 to Mary and Vytas Kaunelis in Ann Arbor, Michigan. After graduating from Catholic Central High School in 1995, he went on to earn his bachelors in elementary education at Eastern Michigan University. In 2007, he earned his masters degree in the Art of Teaching from Marygrove College. He started his teaching career with Taylor Public Schools as a 4th grade elementary school teacher. His career included teaching 4th grade, 5th grade, middle school, and working as the technology facilitator for students K - 5th. He was a dedicated educator and loving mentor to many students, families, and co-workers. In 1995, Derek met the love of his life, Tina (Compton) Kaunelis. They were married on June 7, 2003. Their daughter Brianna (2004) and son Dominick (2007) were the light of his life. Derek enjoyed the outdoors and spending time with his family. He loved hiking and exploring the national parks throughout the country. His favorite moments were around a campfire deep in the peaceful woods or hiking in the mountains. Derek is survived by his wife, Tina Kaunelis, his two children Brianna and Dominick, sisters Laura (Chris) Jones and Jessica (Dean) Hamrick, parents Vytas & Mary (McCarthy) Kaunelis, and many nieces and nephews. A visitation will be held at the R.G. & G.R. Harris Funeral Home, 15451 Farmington Rd., Livonia Tuesday, May 3, 2022 from 3:00 PM until 9:00 PM and Wednesday, May 4, 2022 from 12:00 PM until 8:00 PM. The funeral mass will be held at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, 47650 North Territorial Rd, Plymouth Thursday, May 5, 2022 at 10:00 AM, with in state beginning at 9:30 AM. A luncheon will be held immediately following the mass and all are welcome. Please share a memory of Derek on his tribute wall.