Derr Jr. passed peacefully surrounded by his family and wife of almost 56 years, Denny.
Derr Jr. grew up in the industry, joining the family business in 1965 and working alongside his father, uncle and grandfather, who founded Derr Flooring as Derr Lumber Co. in 1912.
Derr Jr. was named president of Derr Flooring in 1994, and took over as president and CEO in 2000 following the passing of Chet Derr Sr.
Under Derr Jr.’s leadership, the company expanded from one location in Philadelphia to seven warehouses in four different states, growing into one of the largest hard surface distributors in the country.
“He was a pioneer of the early ‘Pro Show’ and a strong advocate for the flooring contractor,” the company said in a statement. “He thoroughly enjoyed his interactions with vendors and customers, but most of all he loved his employees. He kept an open door policy and any time, any day, employees had full access to his attention and wisdom.
“He will be missed,” the company added, “but his legacy lives on in the fourth and fifth generations of family members now employed at Derr Flooring.”
Funeral arrangements will be private due to COVID-19. Donations to a personal charity can be made in Derr Jr.’s name.
