Derek J Feichtinger

Derek J. Feichtinger (40) was called to Heaven on August 2, 2024 joining his dad in their eternal Home. 

Derek was born to proud parents Jurgen and Carol (nee Rigoni) on August 25, 1983 in Chicago. 

Derek had a love for classical music which could often be heard blaring from his car or apartment windows. He made others see and feel the beauty in music. He was so incredibly talented and played the piano and violin for many years. If there was a piano there, he was playing it. Playing the piano was a great outlet and influence on his life. 

Like his father, Derek enjoyed watching and playing sports. He played soccer for many years, even joining the team at Lane. He could often be found (and heard) yelling at the TV with his father over the White Sox, Bears, and Blackhawks. 

Derek spent many summers volunteering at Lake Geneva Youth Camp where he worked in the kitchen. He valued the time he spent there, friends he made, and his relationship with Christ. 

Derek attended Lane Tech and North Park University where he graduated with a degree in History, and while he valued his education, his true passion was for food and cooking. Derek spent many years working in restaurants and was a self taught chef. He eventually joined the Loyola Events and Catering team where he created menus and food for catering events. He was recently promoted to Executive Chef. Derek loved Asian cuisine and even traveled to several Asian countries to immerse himself in the food and culture. 

In his spare time, Derek enjoyed photography, reading, building Star Wars Lego models, spending time with his niece and nephew, and exploring new restaurants. 

Derek is preceded in death by his father, Jurgen, who was his best friend and whom he missed dearly. 

He is survived by his mother, Carol, his sister, Stefanie (Raul) Rodriguez, niece and nephew, Charlotte and Dominic, and several aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. 

Derek will be always be remembered for his sensitive and kind nature, generosity, his laugh-till-you-cry humor, witty and strong personality, and knowledge of everything. 

We take great comfort in knowing that Derek knew and trusted the Lord, and although we will miss his Earthly presence, because of God’s gift of salvation through his Son, we have the hope of being reunited again one day in Heaven. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Derek J Feichtinger, please visit our floral store.