Derek Wayne Chase

Derek Wayne Chase, of Copperas Cove, Texas, passed away on September 30, 2026, on his 47th birthday, while in his home surrounded by family,  Born on September 30, 1979, in Grinnell, Iowa, Derek fought valiantly for more than four years with colon cancer. His body was tired, but his strength, humor, and love for those around him remained part of who he was throughout his life.

Derek grew up in Iowa and Indiana before eventually settling with his parents in Southlake, Texas during his high school years. Over the course of his life, he built a path shaped by creativity, technical skill, and a genuine love for music and performance. He enjoyed his work as a sound and audio engineer and began at a young age at the Grapevine Opry and working for audio/visual companies and performances around the Dallas/Ft. Worth Metroplex. In later years, he worked at the local high school as the auditorium manager, where he brought his expertise in sound, lighting, and production to the stage and to the many events and people who benefited from his steady hand and knowledge.

Outside of work, Derek’s interests were many and deeply enjoyed. He loved working on, driving, and collecting cars, especially fast ones. From a young age, he also loved trains, and he and his son, Brayden, had been working together on a large model train layout, a project that reflected both Derek’s enthusiasm and the special bond they shared. He owned and collected many guitars over the years and passed along his love of music and instruments to his children. He enjoyed traveling and was always planning or dreaming of the next adventure. Those who knew Derek will remember his infectious smile and his great sense of humor, gifts that brightened the lives of family and friends alike.

Above all, Derek was a family man whose love will continue in the lives of those closest to him. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Chase, and by their children, Allyssa Kimball, Emily Kimball, and Brayden Chase. He is also survived by his brother Keith Chase and sister-in-law Yvonne Chase. In addition, he leaves behind a large circle of extended family, including his aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws, brother in law, sister in law, nieces, and nephews, all of whom carry memories of his warmth, laughter, and presence. He leaves behind many friends who are like family and he was so appreciate of their love and support.

Derek was preceded in death by his parents, Wayne and Tru Ann Chase, whose love and guidance were part of the foundation of his life.

A Rosary will be held on October 8, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church, 1001 Georgetown Rd, Copperas Cove, TX 76522, followed by a Mass from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the same location. A graveside service will be held on October 10, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Copperas Cove City Cemetery, 415 E Avenue A, Copperas Cove, TX 76522.

Derek will be remembered for the life he built with care, the passions he pursued with joy, and the love he gave so freely to his family. His memory will live on in music, in laughter, in the thrill of the open road, in the careful work of hands building something meaningful, and in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family would like to offer an option to donate to pinkwarriorangels.org/donate in his honor. An organization that has been so supportive of the family during Derek's battle with cancer.