Derek Dean Westervelt, 63, of rural Pittsburg, passed away at 3:25 p.m., Friday, Aug. 21, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Pittsburg.

He was born Nov. 29, 1962, in Pittsburg, the son of Lennie Lee and Gloria Mae (Antonette) Westervelt. Derek attended Cherokee Grade School and graduated from Southeast High School in 1981. While in school, he excelled at basketball and continued his education at Fort Scott Community College.

Derek worked for the Crawford County Highway Department as a grader operator. He also spent many years farming and ranching alongside his father and uncle.

Derek had a wonderful sense of humor and was always ready with a joke. He enjoyed making others laugh and was known for his willingness to lend a hand whenever someone needed it. He had a lifelong love of basketball and enjoyed golfing, fishing and spending time outdoors.

Above all, Derek cherished his family, especially his grandchildren. He will be remembered for his humor, generosity and the joy he brought to those who knew him.

Survivors include his daughter, Darcey O’Bryhim and her husband, Chad, of Lenexa, Kansas; two grandchildren, Henry and Margot O’Bryhim; his sister, Tianne Westervelt of Cherokee, Kansas; and an uncle, Alvin Westervelt of rural Pittsburg, Kansas.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

According to Derek’s wishes, he will be cremated and no services are planned at this time. A private burial will take place next to his parents in the Cherokee Cemetery. Online condolences may be left at (http://www.brennermortuary.com). Arrangements are under the direction of Brenner Mortuary, Pittsburg, Kansas.