Derek Thomas Floerke

Derek Thomas Floerke, 42, of Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin, passed away on September 28, 2026.

Derek was born on August 25, 1984, to Norman and Debra Floerke. He attended St. Paul's Lutheran School and went on to graduate from Fort Atkinson High School in 2003. He continued his education at UW–Stout and UW–Platteville. During his college years, Derek enjoyed playing baseball for the Utica A's in the Home Talent League. In 2008, he answered the call to service and enlisted in the military.

From a young age, Derek shared a special connection with his grandfather, James Wolfgram. Their time spent together in the outdoors—hunting and sharing quiet moments of understanding—instilled in Derek a love for his country and a sense of pride that had guided him throughout his life. He dedicated much of his adult life to the Wisconsin National Guard and ultimately achieved the rank of Sergeant First Class. As a full-time member of the National Guard, Derek served two tours in the Middle East with the 147th Aviation Battalion. His military service was an important part of who he was and something he was tremendously proud of. He was a dedicated soldier and a great friend to those with whom he served.

Derek continued his commitment to veterans and his community through his involvement with the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 1879, where he served as VFW Commander from 2013 to 2015. He was proud to support fellow veterans and to remain connected to the military community that meant so much to him.

Throughout his military career, Derek received numerous awards and commendations recognizing his service, dedication, and accomplishments including: Army Commendation Medal-4, Army Achievement Medal-3, Army Good Conduct Medal-3, National Defence Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal W/2 Campaign Stars, Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal W/Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal W/M Device & 10 Year Bronze Hourglass, NCO Professional Development Ribbon-3, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, WING Service Ribbon, WING Write Medal-8, Senior Aviation Badge, Meritorious Unit Commendation.

Derek possessed an easy charisma that made everyone feel like family from the moment they met him. Beyond his military service, Derek was an avid outdoorsman, a fan of classic westerns, and a proud Wisconsin sports enthusiast who faithfully wore his green and gold. Derek was happiest surrounded by the people he cared about, leaving behind a legacy of rich memories and stories that will be told for years to come.

Derek was also a devoted dog dad to his two beloved fur children, Max and Jack, who brought him companionship and love.

Though Derek quietly carried the heavy burdens of PTSD and addiction, those struggles could never overshadow the man he truly was: a beloved son, brother, uncle, veteran, and loyal friend whose strength, love, and heart touched everyone who knew him.

Derek is survived by his parents, Norman and Debra (Wolfgram) Floerke; twin sister, Emily (Andy) Harris; triplet brothers, Ethan Floerke, Tyler (Samantha) Floerke, and Dane (Brittany) Floerke; niece Reegan Harris; nephew Declan Harris.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, James and Mary (Kreklow) Wolfgram, and his paternal grandparents, Norman Sr. and Gladys (Dickhut) Floerke.

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 9, 2026, at St. Paul's Ev. Lutheran Church, 301 S. High St., Fort Atkinson, WI 53538, from 9:00 AM to 10:45 AM. Funeral Service to begin at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at North Oakland Cemetery, W7603 Perry Rd, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538, with military honors taking place. After the service and burial, a funeral luncheon will be held back at church.

Nitardy Funeral Home of Fort Atkinson is proudly serving the family.