“Dancing with The Stars” professional dancer Peta Murgatroyd’s father has died at the age of 81.

The 36-year-old took to her Instagram and wrote a tribute to Derek John Murgatroyd, her “teddy bear.”

“To The Greatest Dad, my teddy bear. This is the end of our ride earth side. Oh how I wish we could take this boat trip again,” she wrote alongside a picture of the father-daughter duo enjoying a boat ride together.

Continuing, she wrote, “In the next life we will. This glance to each other was perfectly captured, you were so content, at sea where you were always meant to be.”

She added:

“I know though that you will continue to ride with me until I see you again. I hope I made you proud these 36 years. You were my everything and I will miss you until my days here are done. I will hold the warmth of your hand in my heart forever.”

Murgatroyd concluded her post, referring to herself as “Forever Daddy’s Girl” and wrote her father’s name, the day he was born, and the day he died.

Murgatroyd received love and support under her post.

Advertisement

“Always your ‘darling baby girl’ as you would say. I love you until the 12th of never. Forever Daddy’s Girl. Derek John Murgatroyd 22/7/1941 ~ 29/12/2022,” she shared.

Murgatroyd’s husband, Maksim Chmerkovskiy, posted a single broken heart emoji.

Fellow “Dancing with The Stars” pro dancer Sharna Burgess wrote, “He is always with you. I love you.”

Murgatroyd’s former “Dancing with The Stars” partner Nick Viall wrote, I’m so sorry for your loss Peta.”

In 2018, Murgatroyd posted a touching tribute on Instagram to her father on Father’s day.

“I love you Dad! This father-daughter time was amazing and I feel completely rejuvenated having you here with me. Happy Fathers Day, today is yours and I love you immensely. XO,” she wrote.