Friends Rally to Support Widow After Oil Rig Tragedy

A young woman from Calgary faces an uncertain future following the tragic passing of her husband, Derrick Cullum, who died on December 28, 2023, while working on an oil rig near Rimbey, Alberta. Cullum, just 25 years old, collapsed on the job, prompting co-workers to perform CPR until emergency medical services arrived. Despite their efforts, he could not be revived.

In response to this devastating event, family and friends have organized a GoFundMe campaign, raising nearly $21,000 to help cover funeral costs and support immediate expenses for his widow. The fundraising goal is set at $75,000. Cullum and his wife had only celebrated their marriage in July, making this loss even more profound for those who knew them.

Community Support and Tribute

Loved ones have expressed their grief and admiration for Cullum, describing him as a kind-hearted individual who would go out of his way to help others. “Derrick was the give-your-shirt-off-your-back kind of guy,” stated family friend Cassandra Shearer. She highlighted his love for the outdoors, mentioning his passion for hunting and hockey.

Shearer also reflected on the vibrancy that Cullum brought to conversations. “Whenever I talked to my husband on the phone and Derrick was around, you could always hear him—he was loud, and he was just full of life,” she shared. This sentiment resonates strongly among those who worked alongside him in the oil industry, a sector that employs many from the community.

The importance of supporting his widow during this time cannot be overstated, according to friends. “If it wasn’t for these men doing their jobs, we wouldn’t have a lot of things that we have today,” Shearer noted, emphasizing the critical role these workers play in society.

Investigation Underway

The exact cause of Derrick Cullum’s sudden death remains unknown. The Occupational Health and Safety agency has initiated an investigation into the incident, specifically focusing on a reported fall. As of now, there has been no response from Cullum’s employer, Precision Drilling, regarding the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

As the investigation continues, the community remains united in their support for Cullum’s widow. The GoFundMe campaign serves as a testament to the compassion and solidarity within the community, rallying behind a young woman facing an unimaginable loss. The page has attracted donations from friends, family, and even acquaintances who wish to provide assistance during this difficult time.

In a world where tragedies can strike unexpectedly, the outpouring of support for Cullum’s family shines a light on the deep connections formed within communities, particularly in industries that carry inherent risks.