Dennis J. Derrer

Dennis J. Derrer, 62, of Mancelona, passed away on March 22, 2024.

   Denny was born on September 8, 1961, in Kalkaska, the second oldest son of Roland “Jack” and Kay (Ouvry) Derrer.

   He was a lifelong resident of Mancelona and graduated from Mancelona High School in 1979. He excelled in football and baseball throughout his high school years.  

   Denny loved his family.  He always made time to spend with his children and attend their sporting events even through the college level.  He was proud of the family business he and his brothers had built over the years after taking it over from their father, Derrer Oil and Propane.

   Denny was always active in coaching baseball.  From little league to high school and even travel ball he could be found on a field helping kids to the best of his and their ability.   He was known to many as “Coach” or “Buttermaker”, but to all who met Denny, he was known as friend.  He had a loud laugh and infectious personality that made people feel welcome all the time.  Often, the life of the party, Denny enjoyed playing golf and boating on his pontoon on Torch Lake with his many friends.  

    Surviving are his 2 children, Anthony Derrer (Mackensie Garlow) of Tampa, FL, Ashley Derrer (Miner Cabela) of Bellaire, 4 brothers, Doug Derrer of Mancelona, David (Amy) Derrer of Mancelona, Don (Julie) Derrer of Bellaire, Dan (Natasha) Derrer of Mancelona and many nieces and nephews as well as one great-niece.

   He was preceded in death by his parents Roland “Jack” Derrer and Kay Derrer.

   Visitation will be on Friday, April 5, 2024, from 5-8 p.m. at the Mancelona Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.

   Funeral services will take place on Saturday, April 6 at 1:00 p.m. at the New Hope Church in the Bellaire Theater; visitation will take place from 12:00 noon until 1:00 p.m.  Pastor Bob Felton will officiate.  Immediately following the funeral service, a Celebration of Life will be held at the Bellaire Lanes. 

*There will be additional parking available at the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes and the Physical Therapy building in Bellaire.*  

   Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery, Mancelona.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Mancelona Athletic Department, 112 St. Johns Ave., Mancelona, MI, 49659.

 Arrangements are in the care of the Mancelona Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com