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Message from his son, Michael Derr (c/o '90):
Dear Friends...
It gives me the greatest sadness in my life to tell you that my Pop passed away. We will miss him terribly, but he will always live in our hearts forever and he will never be forgotten.
To me... he was the greatest man who ever lived... First and foremost, an amazing father and grandfather, but also an incredible mentor and friend to me as I became a man, husband and father. I will never forget the life lessons I learned from him and will continue to teach them to my kids and grandkids. It gives me peace to know that he is no longer suffering and that he is in a better place. Thank you, everyone, for the kind letters and be rest assured we read every single one to him and he had a story to tell about each of you. I am so happy he was able to touch so many lives in a positive way!
Rest In Peace, Pop. I'm so proud to be your son. I'll see you on the other side.
Love Always,
Your Son Michael https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/bellinghamherald/name/bruce-derr-obituary?id=34729495
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Linda Perry (O'Connor) (1977)
RIP Coach Derr. You motivated many, and are fondly remembered. God bless.
Kal Wong Jr.
Aloha Michael Derr,
I'm sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. During the mid 1970s, while stationed at Camp Zama as a young Army Officer, I had the privilege to coach for your Dad as a volunteer assistant football coach. Having played football in the KPSSAA league (Yamato High '71) in the late 60s and early 70s, your Dad allowed me to join his staff and help coach the Varsity. Coach Derr was a most honorable man and treated all his players and coaches with dignity and professionalism. Your Dad was always positive and made the game enjoyable for everyone. May God always bless Coach Derr and continued to keep his family safe.
Jeff James (1977)
My family's condolences to you and your family.
One memory of Coach D was him running me over during the Flag football match between teachers and students. I recall him running with his legs pumping seemingly aimed at my chest. Of course, I ducked.
Jeff James
Michele Barsodi (Takei)
Dear Derr family,
The poem below is my empathy for your sadness which never disappears, but memorable moments helps all individuals understand and appreciate Bruce Derr's kindness and respect for others.
Thinking of him in the heavens.
Mrs. Michele Barsodi - Takei, ZHS 1977 French-Spanish teacher
Poem dedicated to Bruce Derr’s family
“Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.”
(By Mary Elizabeth Frye)