Obituary of Carl Harvey Derk

Carl H. Derk, 83 formally of State College, PA passed away peacefully at Valley View Haven, Belleville, PA surrounded by his loving family on Aug 6 2017. Born in Harrisburg, he is proceeded in death by his parents, Ralph and Violet Derk, and his brother, John Derk. Carl is survived by his wife of 64 years, Nancy Ream Derk; daughters, Elizabeth Plant (William) and Jennifer Gallagher (Frank); four grandchildren, Megan Pritchard (companion Matt Fry) Joshua Catral (Amber), Adam Pritchard and Kyle Catral; four step grandchildren, Frank Gallagher (Kate), Nick Gallagher (Gina), Joshua Gallagher and Megan Gallagher; one great granddaughter, Sofia Catral. Carl graduated from The Kings College in Briarcliff Manor, NY and Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia. He started working for a church in Kutztown, PA. In 1967 Carl, his wife and daughters moved to State College where he worked for Inter Varsity Christian Fellowship and Coalition for Christian Outreach. Carl then served as an Associate Pastor of Willow Grove Presbyterian Church in Willow Grove, PA for thirteen years. In 1995 Carl and Nancy moved back to State College where Carl worked with Reformed University Ministries and was an interim pastor at Oakwood Presbyterian Church for three years. Carl played baseball for The Kings College and was chosen by the faculty as the Student Minister of the Campus Chapel. He enjoyed baseball and football, especially Penn State football. He enjoyed hunting, skiing, photography, traveling and doing many fun activities with his grandchildren; he was very involved with the many students he worked with and ministered to. A special THANK YOU to the staff at The Haven at Valley View for the tremendous, loving care that they have provided to Carl and continue to give to Nancy. There will be a public visitation on Wednesday, August 9, 2017 at 4702 E. Main Street, Belleville, PA at the Oakwood Center from 3-4 p.m. A service will follow at 4:00 p.m. followed by a lite dinner at Valley View. Memorial Contributions can be made to Oakwood Presbyterian Church Building Fund, 1865 Waddle Rd., State College, PA 16803. Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College. Online condolences and signing of the guest book may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com. or visit us on Facebook.