In loving memory of

Derek J Chandler
April 10, 1990 - February 6, 2021

DEREK JOHN CHANDLER
MUSCATINE, Iowa - Derek J. Chandler, 30, of Muscatine, passed away Saturday, February 6, 2021.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 13, 2021, at the Ralph J. Wittich-Riley-Freers Funeral Home. Due to the pandemic, the family is asking that friends and family practice social distancing and wear masks at the funeral home. There will be a party at 5:00 p.m. at Boonies on the Avenue after the visitation to honor Derek's wishes. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family. Online condolences may be made at www.wittichfuneralhome.com.

Derek was born April 10, 1990, in Muscatine, the son of Matthew and Cynthia Chandler.

Derek worked at Musco Lighting and was a very talented welder. He enjoyed fishing, disc golf, playing bags, playing Xbox, and taking Murphy, his beloved mastiff, to Wild Cat Den. Most of all, Derek loved spending time with his family and friends.

Derek is survived by his dad, Matt and his wife, Julie, of Muscatine; one brother, Shawn Chandler and his wife, Jeanette, and Derek's nephew, Michael, of Fruitland; grandparents, Ron Chandler and his wife, Toni, and Gary 'Butch' Schroeder and his wife, Joyce, both of Muscatine; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his loving mother, Cindy.

Tributes

JO ELLEN ZYBARTH MEYER wrote on Feb 14, 2021:

"joyce and butch and family so very sorry to learn of your loss."

Mark and Jana Warren wrote on Feb 12, 2021:

"Jana and I were so saddened to see the news about Derek. If he was anything like his Dad, he was probably a hard-working young guy who took a lot of pride in his work, had a great sense of humor and was a reliable friend. So hard to understand why things like this happen to good people. May your family find some solace in the healing power that time offers in these times of grief. "

Susan Schmelzer wrote on Feb 11, 2021:

"Matt, Shawn, Uncle Butch, Aunt Joyce?all of my family up there in Iowa, we are thinking of you? wish we could be there to give y?all hugs, love & support ? holding you close in our hearts?such a tragedy, so young. The boys( Jake & Josh ) & myself will always have memories of times out at the Wilton blacktop house when Shawn & Derek would come over to play, I?m sure Mom & Derek have a lot of catching up to do? I find comfort in that somehow ?MAY GOD HELP YOU ALL FIND COMFORT AS WELL ?please include me in a toast at the Boonies celebration? I will be there in spirit A special note to Shawn: My heart hurts for you big guy ,I love you bunches & I am sending one big massive HUG SPECIAL FOR YOU! I always have had a special place in my heart for you? be strong & keep smiling like you do .Your in my prayers Always Shawn! "

Anne Ledtje wrote on Feb 9, 2021:

"Derek and I pal'd around years ago. While I am far from the most intimate members of his friend circle, he leaves many fond memories here. Kind, dependable, and a good friend. I have few words that can ease the grief, but I have no doubt that the magnitude of love surrounding him and his memory provides solid confirmation that the world is better for him having lived in it. Thoughts to the family."

Kathleen ( Barry) Marshall wrote on Feb 9, 2021:

"Ron and Toni, We are so sorry to read of the passing of your grandson. He is so young. Please know that we will keep you in our thoughts and our prayers during this difficult time. Ron and Kathy ( Barry) Marshall"

Eldon Jr. and Debbie Ballenger wrote on Feb 9, 2021:

"Matt and Family, So very sorry for your loss...Please take care and know you are in our thoughts... Eldon Jr. And Debbie Ballenger"

Shelly Hayes wrote on Feb 9, 2021:

"My sincere heartfelt condolences for the entire family. My heart ?? and prayers go out to ya?ll."

Sandy Bean wrote on Feb 9, 2021:

"We are thinking of you. Danny and Sandy Bean"