Auto instructor Deeter dies after home accident
Award winning automotive technician and Saddleback College automotive instructor Darrell Deeter died Friday, from an accident at his home in Lake Elsinore, CA.
Deeter who taught automotive fundamental courses such as engine blueprinting and electrical systems since 2005 was also a keen machinist who enjoyed teaching students trade secrets and techniques.
Colleague Clifford Meyer who taught alongside Deeter remembers him as an inspiring instructor who touched the souls of those he taught and worked alongside with.
“He was a great colleague and friend and we complimented each other on everything,” Meyer said.
Deeter was also an avid adventure motorcyclist who has travelled the nation extensively and is known for his treks to and from Alaska on two wheels – where he taught for 21 years at the Alaska Institute of Technology before moving to California.
“He was a wonderful instructor and also a trusted friend who never failed to offer a helping hand,” Saddleback College President Tod Burnett said in a college-wide statement from Monday.
“He’s basically an explorer… that was Deeter,” Meyer said. “Everybody is upset and we all miss him greatly. “
An automotive student scholarship will be established on behalf of Deeter’s name through the Saddleback College Foundation.
Deeter is survived by his wife Beth and daughter Stephanie.
Funerals will be held Friday Sept. 21 at 11 a.m. at the Latter Day Saints Chapel in Lake Elsinore and Saturday Sept. 22 at 11 a.m. at the Latter Day Saints Chapel in Brea.
Deeter’s family has requested that instead of flowers that donations be made to the Darrell Deeter Scholarship Fund for students in Saddleback’s automotive technology program.