Dermott MacPherson

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Dermott MacPherson of Lagrangeville on March 17th, 2025, after a short battle with cancer with his family by his side. He was born at Sharon Hospital on March 18, 1943, to Forrest and Haldis Holden MacPherson, both deceased. He is survived by his wife, Ursula, of 59 years; his son Blake (Marie Lusk) of Poughkeepsie; his brother Neil of Austin Tx; his sister Heather Bergeron (Dan) of Ontario, Canada; many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Derry, as he was affectionately known, attended Rumsey Hall School, South Kent School, Poughkeepsie High School, and SUNY New Paltz. In 1966 he was drafted into the Army. While in boot camp, he married Ursula Rehm. He was assigned to the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., in the War Room as a Computer Operator.
After his discharge, he and Ursula took a 5-month honeymoon traveling through Europe. Returning to Dutchess County, he continued his education at DCC, while finding time to attend Woodstock! He eventually joined IBM until his retirement in 2005.
In 1973, his cherished son, Blake, was born. Derry enjoyed nothing more than the time they spent together, whether riding their motorcycles or working on a mechanical or machining project at his hangar. Blake will surely carry forward his father's intuitive wisdom and analytical skills while missing his "Best Friend" and his dry sense of humor.
Derry lived a full and vibrant life. Skiing was always a favorite pastime until a knee injury sidelined him. That was followed by several years of motorcycle flat track racing, including building his bike from scratch. Later in life his interest turned into flying and he earned his private pilot license. His retirement years were kept busy at his self-built hangar at Sky Acres where he enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow pilots. During those years, he and Ursula enjoyed many trips abroad including to Peru, Russia, South Africa,Europe, and Egypt, his favorite.
Derry was an avid cat lover and his latest rescue; George was by his side during his illness. So in lieu of flowers, consider a donation to Stray Help, PO Box 245, Fishkill, NY 12524.
On May 3, there will be a graveside service at Evergreen Cemetery, Pine Plains, at noontime. At 1 pm there will be a gathering at the Lions Pavilion at Stissing Lake, Stissing Lake Road, Beach Road., Pine Plains.