first generation parents from Holland. She passed away peacefully to be with her Lord and
Savior on April 3, 2019. She was 89 years old.
Geraldine lived a vibrant life full of love and passion. She was blessed to meet her life long
love, Kenneth L. Derr, at the age of 15 at a school dance. From that point they were a dynamic
duo, taking on the world side by side. They were married on August 8, 1948 in a double
wedding alongside her beloved sister Gretchen and her betrothed, Ralph Quiggle.
They began their life together in Freeport, Illinois where they had their first three children,
Roxanne, Todd, and Lisa. After a few years they decided to move their brood out to California
where they were gifted with their fourth child Joel. It was there that they laid down roots and
established their legacy of love for their community.
It was in California that Geri dove deep into her love for philanthropy. She was “Honorary Life”
PTA President in Whittier, member of the Philanthropic Educational Organization and
Assistance League, led many Vacation Bible Schools at East Whittier Presbyterian Church, and
worked at Rio Hondo Junior College. Geraldine always set an example of loving others first and
radiated her love for life and Christ to all she met.
It was in retirement that Geraldine and her “honey” Kenneth moved to San Clemente where she
made her mark on yet another community. The Derrs invested deeply in San Clemente
Presbyterian Church and made family a priority by attending many events at the local high
schools. They also made it a point to travel cross country to Boston and up to Northern
California to spend time with their eight grandchildren who Geraldine loved with all her heart.
Geraldine had a life that was truly lived to the fullest. Those who knew her always felt that she
loved with her whole heart, laughed from the deepest part of her belly, smiled with all the
muscles in her face, rejoiced in Jesus from the depths of her beautiful soul and made every
single day that she lived count.
Geraldine is survived by her four children, Roxanne, Todd, Lisa and Joel, her eight
grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Her family would like
to invite you to a Celebration of Geraldine Derr’s life at Fairhaven Waverly Chapel found at 1702
Fairhaven Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92705 on May 3rd at 2:30 in the afternoon.
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