Albert L. Derga

Albert L. Derga, age 63, passed away Saturday, November 9, 2013 at Wheaton Franciscan – All Saints Medical Center. Albert was born in Cascade, Iowa, March 5, 1950, son of the late Albert L. and Marcella C. (Nee: Leyendecker) Derga.

Albert attended St. Paul Grade School in Worthington, Iowa, Beckman High School in Dyersville, IA, and proudly graduated in 3-1/2 years from Loras College in Dubuque, IA. Furthering his education he received his Masters from Cardinal Stritch University. On September 24, 1977 at St. Peter Catholic Church in North Ridgeville, Ohio he was united in marriage to Carol A. Cunningham. A dedicated employee, Albert was proud to have worked for J.I. Case Company, CNH for the past forty one years. He was a longtime active member of St. Rita Catholic Church, and was well known for running the meat raffle with his wife at their church festival for many years. Albert was actively involved with the Elks Lodge #252 where he served as Past Exalted Ruler, District Deputy, and was instrumental with state major projects, and other elk charities. Being raised on a farm, he had a special fondness for chickens, was a collector of Case tractor memorabilia, and enjoyed casino trips. Above all he cherished time with his family and friends. He will be deeply missed.

Survivors include his loving wife of thirty-six years, Carol; his children, Shelly (Michael) Smith of Forest Lake, MN, Sarah (Ron) Despins, Sally Derga, Robert Despins, all of Racine; two grandchildren, Daniel and Maryann Despins; sisters and brothers, Alvera Weber of Winthrop, IA, Bernice (Arthur) Lansing of Dyersville, IA, Mary (Robert) Morris of Manchester, IA, Grace (Richard) Neuzil of Dyersville, IA, John (Kathy) Derga of Worthington, IA, Jane Hahn of Dyersville, IA; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his brothers-in-law, Ralph Weber and Herbie Hahn.

Relatives and friends may meet with the family Thursday, November 14, 2013 at the funeral home from 9:30 A.M. until 12:30 P.M. (Elk Service at 12:00 P.M.) Procession to St. Rita Catholic Church, 4339 Douglas Avenue will follow for a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 1:00 P.M. Entombment will be held at Holy Cross Garden Mausoleum, Hwy 32. Memorials to St. Rita Catholic Church or to the Elk State Major Project have been suggested.