Obituaries

Robert “Bob” Derr, Jr., 75

November 11, 2024

Robert L. Derr, Jr.,75, passed away peacefully at his home on November 11, 2024, with his family surrounding him. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, educator and coach. Known affectionately as “Bobby”, he was a pillar of strength and a guiding light to his community, cherished by his family, respected by colleagues and revered by countless students and athletes.

Raised in Lititz, PA, he was the son of the late Robert L. Derr, Sr, and Lois Albert Derr. Bobby was the husband of Kathleen (Yohn) Derr. They celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary on October 16, 2024. Bobby leaves behind a legacy of dedication, compassion, and outstanding accomplishments that spanned over five decades.

Bobby was a 1968 graduate of Warwick High School, Lititz, where he played football and was part of the 1967 Lancaster County Championship Team, wrestling at 112lbs. and was a 1967 sectional champion and ran track. A graduate of West Chester State (University) with a BS in Health and Physical Education, he returned to his alma mater and committed his life to teaching and coaching Wrestling, Track & Field, and Girls Field Hockey.

His early years as Head Jr. High Wrestling coach led to a record of 88-8, including five undefeated seasons, six Jr. High League Championships, six Elizabethtown Optimist Tournaments Championships.

Bobby was also a distinguished wrestling official, officiating high school and collegiate matches for over 50 years. This impressive officiating career included 43 Sectional and District Tournaments, 5 PIAA State Wrestling Championships and 3 State Team Tournaments. He was the Lancaster Lebanon Rules Interpreter for 32 years, and District Rules Interpreter for 4 years. He was named Official of the Year by the Lancaster Lebanon Coaches Association for 13 years. He also officiated 23 years at the Collegiate level, doing 21-Division III MAC qualifiers, 2 PSAC Tournaments, Division I EWL qualifier in 2003, 8 -Eastern Regional qualifiers, 15-ECWC/CAA Division I qualifiers, 2-NCAA Division II Championships, and 13-NCAA Division I National Wrestling Championships from 1999-2011.

Highly respected in the wrestling community, he was inducted into numerous Hall of Fames. District III Wrestling HOF (1993), Lancaster-Lebanon Wrestling HOF (2008), National Wrestling HOF – “Lifetime Service” (2009), National Wrestling Officials Association Golden Whistle Award (2011), PA Wrestling Coaches HOF (2016), and Solanco Wrestling HOF (2022).

In addition to his contributions to wrestling Bobby found an extreme passion for coaching Field Hockey which led to a 43-year career as Head Coach of Warwick’s Girl’s Team, he achieved a record of 630-201-37. Earning14- Lancaster-Lebanon Section Titles, 11-Lancaster-Lebanon League Titles, 6- District III PIAA Titles, 3-PIAA AAA State Championship Titles (1987, 1999, 2000), and 1- Olympian Alyssa Manley 2016 – “RIO”. His commitment to the sport earned him recognition for the Jr. Hockey Award for Youth Hockey and the National Field Hockey Coaches Association -Coach of the Year (2000), National High School Coaches Association-Coach of the Year (2001) and Induction into the National Field Hockey Coaches Association Hall of Fame (2010), and the Susquehanna Valley Chapter PA Sports Hall of Fame for Field Hockey & Wrestling –(2011). Remarkably, 57 of his former players have gone on to coach high school or collegiate sports carrying forward the values he instilled.

Bobby’s influence also extended to track & field, where he coached for 29 years, guiding numerous champions and earning sectional and district champions.

Throughout his life Bobby received numerous awards including Lancaster Sportswriters and Sportscasters Award (1987,2000, 2001), Outstanding Young Men’s Fitness Leader (1988), Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers Award (2004-2006), Lititz Borough Council & Citizens of Lititz Lifetime Service Award and Key to the Borough of Lititz (2009), Annual George W. Kirchner Memorial Award (2010), Inducted into the 1st Class of Warwick’s Hall of Fame (2014), and the Lancaster-Lebanon League Hall of Fame (2019). Bobby mentored over 1,500 student-athletes, instilling discipline, commitment, accountability, and a positive attitude. He taught them the value of being a good role model, showing kindness, and practicing good sportsmanship both on and off the field. Bobby went beyond teaching sports skills; he believed in using athletics as a platform to impart important life lessons. Above all, he emphasized the importance of having fun in everything you do.

Bobby was passionate about giving back to his community. In 2005, he helped establish an annual tradition with the girls’ hockey teams, where they would clean up Lititz Springs Park every year on the day following the 4th of July celebration. Additionally, Bobby’s commitment to youth sports extended to his leadership in the Warwick Youth Field Hockey Program, which he founded and led for 35 years. Each year, the girls also helped coach this program, continuing the legacy Bobby had built.

Bobby was a dedicated member of the Lititz Lodge 1050 I.O.O.F. (Independent Order of Odd Fellows) for 50 years and served as a member of the PIAA Wrestling Officials for 30 years.

Bobby cherished spending time with his children and grandchildren. He loved having lunch with his sisters and brother-in-law, and he enjoyed gathering with other family members, friends, and fellow officials. Bobby found joy in the simple pleasures of life, like watching westerns and horror movies on TV. He was a devoted fan of Michigan football and college wrestling, and he particularly loved to dance. His love for music led him to the American Music Theatre, where he enjoyed performances of all genres—especially Doo Wop and Johnny Mathis. Bobby was known to sing along every chance he got, sharing his joy for music with those around him.

Bobby is survived by his wife, Kathy, three children and seven grandchildren; Daughter-Danielle Van Natta (Jack) of CO, grandson Gage, TX and granddaughter Mackenzie, AZ; Daughter Bree Arvai (John IV) MI and their children John V, Clare, Ella, Jake; and Son Robert Andrew Derr (Melissa) and grandson Marshall. He is also survived by two sisters Wanda Jones (Richard) New Holland, and Kathleen Derr Francis of NJ and several other nieces and nephews and their children.

Visitations will be held on Friday, February 7, 2025, from 3:30PM -7:30PM and on Saturday, February 8, 2025, 9AM to 11AM with a “Celebration of Life” Service to begin promptly at 11:30AM at Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA 17543. The service will be livestreamed; to watch, please go to Bob’s obituary at SnyderFuneralHome.com at 11:20AM on Saturday and the stream will appear at that time. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Robert ‘Bob ‘ Derr Memorial Scholarship Fund. Donations can be made via the following link. https://secure.acceptiva.com/?cst=qcHbuc Should you wish to make a donation via a check, please make payable to Lancaster County Community Foundation – and note “Bob Derr Fund” in the memo. All donations are tax-deductible.

Leave a condolence on this Memorial Page

Condolences to the Family

February 08, 2025

Kathy and family, WOW! What a beautiful service honoring Bob’s life. Joe and I were always happy to see you out at restaurants and talk together. May the days ahead have peace in the fond memories! Fondly, Tina & Joe Texter

February 08, 2025

Coach, many years ago I asked “Coach, how do you go about planning to take on a former player you had Coached.
Your answer was that of a “true coach.” He stated “I see it as a tremendous impact on the growth of teams and new teams. Win or lose, we all learned. Godspeed Coach. Thank you for your work with our daughter, Maura Gordon.
Be Safe,
Crail Gordon

February 08, 2025

One day at a time. We were all blessed to know Bob call any time you have my number ❤️
Peanut

February 05, 2025

In 1971, I was on the first wrestling team coached by Coach Derr. I’ve always called him “Coach” since then due to my great respect for his coaching abilities. That Warwick Junior High team went undefeated and so did I, the only time I’ve done that in my career. Coach taught great technique but also made it fun. In those days, we made weight by running in place in the showers in a rubber suit and not drinking any fluids from our last practice till weigh-ins the next afternoon. Making that fun was quite a challenge, but somehow Coach pulled it off. I learned to love wrestling and haven’t stopped.
Years later when our daughter Anna decided to play field hockey, she went into Coach Derr’s program and loved it. They learned technique, strategy and teamwork. Even more importantly, though, they learned to give “Whatever it takes!” That grit he inspired has stuck with his athletes for life.
In her senior year, Anna played on Sutter’s Brigade for Coach and they were traveling to Palm Springs, CA for a national tournament. I agreed to be in charge of the logistics of that trip and we had such a memorable time with Coach and the girls. We told stories and laughed and I got a chance to tell him how important he’d been in my life. I’m so glad I was on that trip. He’s been such an important person in my life.
To Kathy, Danielle, Bree, and Andy, please accept my condolences for your loss. Debby and I have a flight on 2/7/25 and will miss the services, but will certainly be thinking of you. As Always, Ned Pelger

January 31, 2025

Bobby was a wrestling teammate at West Chester State (now University). Bobby was tenacious but his greatest contribution was keeping our prepractice time fun and loose. Greatly sorry for the void he left his family and friends.
john Purnell

January 31, 2025

Kathy, Dani, Bree, and Andy,
I am sending your entire family my condolences. Bobby’s obituary was a beautiful tribute that captured his many talents as a husband, father, teacher, coach, referee, mentor, and role model. I will always remember Bobby as a positive force who pressed those he coached for their best efforts–with fabulous results over decades. May sweet memories be your comfort in the midst of your grief. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Deann Buffington

January 24, 2025

Coach Derr lived a life that could be made into a movie. He led so many young student athletes toward success, not just on the field, but in the walk of life. He will always be remembered, by so many! Thank you Coach for your time and dedication, it never went unseen.
Carley Ciccarone (Buckwalter)

December 27, 2024

Coach Derr was an inspirational coach who transformed so many of us at Warwick. He taught me work ethic, determination, and the desire to be the best. I can never repay him for what he did to make me who I am today. Thanks, Coach!
Pete Sload

December 03, 2024

Kathy, Danielle, Bree, and Andy,
My heart goes out to you in the loss of your loved one. Boob was very special and l Ioved by so many but none more than his family. It’s been years since I was your neighbor 1978-1981 but I have never forgotten you. I remember many nights in the Horns yard chatting. I remember the children when they were little as was my son Joel. I especially remember Andy in a diaper knocking on my door f or a cookie. My brother Jan told me about Bob’s passing and how so many n people wanted to pay their respects. I’m sending my best c wishes and prayers to b you in this difficult time. Janet Bedger

December 03, 2024

Kathy, Danielle,, Bree, and Andy,
I am so sorry to hear about Bohs passing. My brother Jan told me about it and about all the people who were going to. I am their respects. It’s been a long time but I haven’t forgotten the Derr family. I also remember the many nights in the Horns yard chatting together. My warmest wishes, sympathy, and prayers go out to all of you. Bob was loved by so many people. Janet Bedger

December 03, 2024

November 21, 2024

I had the honor of knowing Bob at West Chester State through wrestling. He truly was a wonderful, kind person. So sad to hear he has passed, but will long be remembered for the many, many lives he impacted in such a positive way. RIP teammate

November 19, 2024

I have known Bob since about 1967 when we were both young wrestlers. I at Hempfield and he at Warwick. We were then teammates at West Chester State. I was 118 # and he was 126 #. He was already teaching. It was called Cradlerama Time. He would put me in a cradle from any position and I could not get out!! He was smart, funny, cheerful, and well respected. He was my favorite referee when I coached at Conestoga Valley. My heart sank when I saw his notice. I will greatly miss him. I pray that God will protect and bless his family.
Dick Milley (West Chester State)

November 19, 2024

Bob Derrick was one of the kindest, gentle person, always pleasant and nice to be around. We were at his first state title game, so awesome and exciting! He will be missed by his hockey and wrestling family but also by his many friends. To Kathy and kids, our prayers and thoughts are with you🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️

November 19, 2024

So sorry for your loss. What a blessing Bob was to so many as a coach and teacher. Prayers for comfort for the family. God Bless.

November 18, 2024

I officiated many times with Bob. I cannot say enough great things about him and how he helped me to become a better official either through our discussions or just by watching him. God Bless the Derr family and please know that he was such a positive influence in the lives of so many. I was very fortunate to know and work with him.

November 17, 2024

I refereed with Bob many times throughout many years. Always a great, professional, courteous referee, always willing to help and mentor, especially young officials. May God look down and Bless the Derr family knowing how much Bobby was loved and respected throughout the wrestling community. May your thoughts of a life well lived, and a man so respected place peace in your heart in these times. God Bless the Derr family and may Bob rest in peace forever more. Thanks for all you taught me and many others.
KenDaws

November 17, 2024

Dear Kathy and Family,
I’m so sorry for your loss. Coach Derr was a super coach – through all my years on his team (7th to 12th grades) he believed in me more than I believed in myself at times. It still matters to me to this day. I also remember how faithful you and the kids were to supporting our team as well, so thank you!
Sherri (Warwick class of 1987)

November 15, 2024

I am the grandmother of Janessa Pope Carpenter. She played FH with Sutters Brigade. She traveled from Harrisburg to be coached by Bob. We are eternally grateful to him because Janessa played four years for UMD (free ride) and is currently coaching for Sidwell Friends School in DC as well as club hockey Next Level MD teams. Thank you Bob you had no idea how much you changed her life. Freda Derr (no relation)

November 15, 2024

Thank you for being such a great example for our girls Anne and Jen. Rest in peace. Thank you for being such a great example to our daughters Anne and Jen. May you rest in peace.
Susan andGeorge Swan

Susan

November 15, 2024

November 14, 2024

Coach Derr made a positive impact on so many and will be missed. He wasxa man in constant motion which always amazed me. Rest in peace! Prayers to all those impacted by his loss.

November 14, 2024

To Kathy, Danielle, Bree and Andy.
I have known Bobby since the 1980’s, when he and his family were former neighbors of mine. He was a kind and generous person, who always had a smile on his face, a great sense of humor, and was always there for you if you needed anything. Above all else, he was a wonderful family man.
Please accept my condolences, and May God be with you all with his love and blessings.
Dave Crouse

November 14, 2024

Kathy, Danielle, Bree, Andy, I do not have the words to express the respect and love I have for Bob, Dad, COACH, he was, is, and always will be the BEST COACH EVER !
holding you all close in love and prayers,
Rhoda

November 14, 2024

Love you, coach. With all my heart always.

Visitation: Saturday, February 08, 2025; 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM; Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory; 3110 Lititz Pike; Lititz, PA 17543
Map and Directions: Get Maps and Directions >
Visitation: Friday, February 07, 2025; 3:30 PM - 7:30 PM; Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory; 3110 Lititz Pike; Lititz, PA 17543
Map and Directions: Get Maps and Directions >
Services: Saturday, February 08, 2025; 11:30 AM; Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory; 3110 Lititz Pike; Lititz, PA 17543
Map and Directions: Get Maps and Directions >