Kyle "Dirt" Derke

Kyle "Dirt" Derke June 29, 1966 - March 21, 2025
Kyle Derke, lovingly known as "Dirt," passed away on March 21, 2025, at the age of 58 in Burnsville, MN. Born on June 29, 1966, in Stoughton, WI, Kyle lived a life filled with love, music, and an unwavering devotion to his family and friends.
Kyle is survived by his wife, Debra Derke; his beloved daughters, Megan (Anish) Thapa, Nicole Derke, and Paige (Mitch) Galles. He is preceded in death by his parents, Judith (Sandvig) Derke and Dennis Derke, as well as his brother, Kent Derke.
A true music enthusiast, Kyle's love for 80's rock was more than just a passion-it was a way of life. As a bass guitarist in multiple bands, he found joy in playing music and sharing that energy with anyone willing to jam. Whether on stage or in a casual gathering, music was his heartbeat, and his love for it was infectious.
Kyle was also an avid NASCAR fan and a devoted Minnesota Vikings supporter, always cheering on his team through every high and low. Some of his fondest memories were spent at the family cabins in Mirror Lake State Park, a place built by his father and cherished by generations, as well as at Ladwig's Pine Arbor Resort.
Above all, Kyle was surrounded by people who loved him. His humor, kindness, and easygoing nature made him a friend to many and a stranger to none. His memory will live on in the music he played, the friendships he built, and the love he gave so freely.
A funeral service will be held on Sunday, March 30th at 12 PM at Wasburn-McReavy Bloomington Chapel, 2300 W Old Shakopee Rd, Bloomington, MN. Visitation one hour prior. A celebration of Kyle's life will be held in Stoughton at a later date. The family requests that you play your favorite 80's rock song in his honor and turn up the volume-just like he would have wanted.
Rock on, Dirt. You will be deeply missed.