In memory of Derek Dersch

It breaks my heart to say that my best friend’s son, Derek was taken from us on December 10, 2020. He was only 30. His mother and I have known each other for more than 30 years. Michelle Woodard started in a very tough situation, but she managed to get herself through college and a masters degree in math. She is now a professor in Lansing, Michigan & through it all, she raised 2 amazing children. Derek was the oldest. He was a free spirit who liked to experience all that life would give him. He and his fiancée had just set a date for their wedding, bought property where they were planning to build & were discussing having children when this tragic accident destroyed all their plans. Anything you give will go toward the costs of getting him from California to Michigan, memorial costs, some assistance for his fiancé to get on her feet and pay some bills and anything else the family needs. If you don’t feel comfortable giving on this application, donations can also be sent in the form of checks or money orders. Contact the organizer for an address. Derek is survived by his mother Michelle, stepfather Bill, sister Rachel and fiancé Lizzy