Robert E. Derr

Robert E. Derr, 84, of Wood River died Wednesday, January 6, 2021, at Emerald Lakeview Nursing Center in Grand Island.



According to his wishes, Robert’s body was cremated, a family grave side service will be held at a later date.



Robert Edward Derr was born June 4, 1936, at Giltner, Nebraska to Elmer Derr and Agnes (Salmon) Derr.

Robert received his primary education in the Grand Island Public Schools.



He married Norma J. Hayse on April 9, 1955 at Wood River. The couple made their home in the Prosser / Wood River area. Robert worked in Grand Island until they moved to the farm, there the couple raised 3 sons.



Robert operated the family farm until 2 of his son’s joined him in 1979, he retired in 2002 to spend more time with his wife, family and friends.



He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Wood River and the Platte Duetsche in Grand Island.



His hobbies included traveling, fishing, boating and camping. He especially cherished time spent with his family, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.



Survivors include two sons and daughters-in-law, Jerry and Kay Derr of Grand Island and Michael and Holly Derr of Harvard; a daughter-in-law, Audrey Derr of Grand Island; a brother in-law and friend, John Hayse and Monte of St. Joseph, MO; and a sister in-law, Mary Reinhardt of Furlong, PA; fifteen grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.



He was preceded in death by his wife Norma, his parents; one son Roger Allen Derr; one brother, Gene Derr, two sisters Lynda Garver and Nadean Seymour, along with 3 brother in-laws.



Memorials are to be sent to the family; the family will determine a good cause at a later date.