Benjamin Derr

Carlisle- Benjamin D. Derr, 32, of Carlisle and most recently Schoharie, died unexpectedly on Thursday, Jan. 16, 2020 at Albany Medical Center.

Born June 30, 1987 in Cooperstown, he was the son of Andrea (Elwood) Myers and Francis G. Derr, who both survive him.

Ben graduated from Cobleskill-Richmondville Central School in 2005 and later from SUNY Cobleskill with a bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Management.  He flourished in college, graduating top of the class and was the recipient of the Outstanding Student Award.  Ben was a field technician for Cornell University Quality Milk Production Services for the past several years.

Ben was an outdoor enthusiast at heart and gathered immense joy from spending his time in nature, either camping or hiking.  He was elated to share his knowledge with all who would lend an ear and could proudly identify each butterfly by their scientific name, along with trees and plants.  A camera was never far from hand for Ben in recent years as he honed his skills as an avid nature photographer.  He was always more than willing to go the extra step for the ‘perfect shot’ his family recounts, including venturing on thin ice for an ideal winter stream scene.  Music was yet another source of passion for Ben and one that was shared amongst his group of very close friends.  Those whom Ben shared his life with will remember him as having a warm heart that he happily gave to Chelsea, his long-time partner, along with his family and close friends.

His stepfather, Dennis Myers, predeceased him.

Cherishing his many memories are his mother, Andrea Myers (John Hart) of Carlisle; his father, Francis G. Derr of Bloomingdale, NY; his sister, Shannon Derr of Cobleskill; maternal grandparents:  David and Mary Elwood of Carlisle; his best friend of over 5 years, Chelsea Gendreau of Schoharie; four aunts:  Betsy Elwood of Schenectady, Heather (James) O’Neil of Newburg, Dottie (Grant) Broderick and Susan Derr both of Florida; his half-sister, Jennifer Nardone of Guilderland, several cousins and many friends.

A Celebration of Life will be at 3PM on Tues., January 21, 2020 at the Mereness-Putnam Funeral Home, 171 Elm Street, Cobleskill, NY.  A period of visitation will be held from 1 to 3 PM prior to the service.  In keeping with Ben’s interests, the family suggests casual attire, welcoming Grateful Dead and tie dye shirts.   Burial will be in the Carlisle Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to SUNY Cobleskill Foundation, 106 Suffolk Circle - Knapp Hall 228, Cobleskill, NY 12043.  Or one can also make gifts online at www.cobleskill.edu/give.  Please fill in the designation line as: "Fisheries & Wildlife Fund" and the "Tribute info" should be completed by clicking "yes" in the "in memory" section and type in "Ben Derr."