Dawn Elaine Derck

Dawn Elaine (Hostetter) High Derck, 84

January 22, 2026

Dawn Elaine (Hostetter) High Derck of Lancaster, PA, entered eternal rest on the 22nd of January 2026, in Lancaster, PA. She was the beloved wife of the late Robert Ira Derck, with whom she shared 25 years of marriage before his passing in January 2016. Dawn was the eldest daughter of the late James D. Hostetter and Betty Jane Miller Hostetter Stauffer.

A graduate of Lampeter-Strasburg High School, Dawn earned her License in Practical Nursing and worked at Lancaster Osteopathic Hospital. Her compassion extended beyond the hospital as she served as an EMT for both West End Ambulance and Manheim Township Ambulance Association.

Known for her nurturing spirit, Dawn had a deep love for gardening. She was a passionate member of the Garden Club, Demuth Garden Tours, Susquehanna Unit of the Society of Herbs (National Horticulture Society, Washington, D.C.), and took classes at Longwood Gardens. An avid cook, Dawn delighted in entertaining family and friends. She was a creative soul with a passion for journaling and the arts.

Dawn's spiritual journey included early years at Neffsville Mennonite Church, followed by attendance at Faith United Methodist Church. She was also deeply committed to supporting causes close to her heart, including The S. June Smith Center, The Boys & Girls Club, and The Demuth Foundation. Dawn cherished the time spent on the shores of Longboat Key, FL, Chestertown, MD, and Bethany Beach, DE, where she found peace and joy in the company of loved ones.

Dawn is survived by three children: Steven Dale High (Elizabeth) of Lancaster, PA; Gregory Allen High (April) of Lancaster, PA; and Suzanne Marie High of Lititz, PA. She is also survived by her children's father, S. Dale High, three stepchildren, Rob Derck (Stacey), Linda Derck Majikes (Matthew), and Gary Derck (Jan), as well as many grandchildren and step grandchildren. In addition, Dawn is survived by her siblings, Charlotte, Larry, and Brenda. She was predeceased by her sister, Carol, and her half-brother, William Hostetter.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on January 31, 2026 at 10:30am at the Charles Snyder Funeral Home, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lancaster, PA. Friends may visit with the family one hour prior to the service. In keeping with Dawn's wishes, the interment will be private.

The family would like to express its deep appreciation to the incredible staff members at Tandem Living and Hospice and Community Care for their care and support of Dawn. If desired, contributions can be made in her memory to: The Boys and Girls Club of Lancaster, P.O. Box 104, Lancaster, PA 17608