Felix's Future Fund

Derek Bader Denfeld, 25, of South Windsor, CT, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, January 1, 2015. Derek is survived by his parents, Deb & Chris, brother Zack, sisters Kassie, Blaize and Kristen Vermillion, wife Heather Cormier and his beautiful son Felix, who all loved him dearly. Derek graduated from South Windsor High School in 2007 and served as a youth volunteer fire fighter in South Windsor for two years. Derek was service-orientated and in the summer of 2008 he enlisted in the Army. Derek served for 3-1/2 years in the Army with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 8th infantry regiment. Derek was stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado Springs, and was deployed to Iraq for one year. He served his country well as an infantryman and courageously faced the equally challenging struggle of transitioning back to civilian life. After an honorable discharge from the Army, Derek and his family returned east. He attended automotive school, worked at Town Fair Tire in Vernon and most recently as a mechanic at Post Road Stages in South Windsor. Derek was recently assigned to the 344th military police company (guard) in Middletown, CT. Derek will be remembered for his sense of playfulness, his all-embracing hugs, the passion for his truck which constantly challenged his mechanical abilities, and his love for the outdoors. Derek enjoyed camping, hiking and mudding. Derek had many friends and enjoyed his time with them. Derek was surrounded by a large and loving extended family of aunts, uncles and cousins, and shared numerous journeys and adventures with his siblings in the US and abroad. The sense of loss for those who came to know Derek can only be filled with memories of his joyous days with us, and the strength in the face of adversity.

Anyone that knows the stuggles of P.T.S.D. will find this a great cause please share and help take care of one of our own. He leaves behind this great little boy who should know how much he is loved. Thank you.