Christopher L. Derbacher Jr.

Today, we gather in love and remembrance to honor the life of Christopher Leroy Derbacher, Jr, born on July 21, 1947, and called home on July 29, 2025.

As we grieve his passing, we also celebrate the life he lived, the family he loved, and the memories he leaves behind.

Chris was a quiet and thoughtful man who shared his life for over five decades with his beloved wife, Ginger, whom he married in 1971. Together, they raised two children — Scott and Kimberly — and built a home rooted in love, care, and lifelong partnership. Chris graduated from duPont Manual High School in 1965 and then went on to graduate from the University of Louisville in 1970.

Chris worked for many years at the Enro Shirt Company, a steady presence who valued doing his part and doing it well. He later spent the final 12 years of his working life with the Jefferson County Public Schools, where he brought the same dedication and quiet diligence to every task.

He had a deep appreciation for the simple joys in life. He enjoyed video games, television, and especially science fiction — with a special fondness for Star Trek, which captured his imagination and love for exploring new worlds and ideas. He also enjoyed game shows, the Hallmark Channel, and the evening news, which became part of his comforting daily routine.

Chris always appreciated having a computer, an iPad, or some form of technology nearby. He was most content when those things were available to him — a quiet space to think, explore, or just enjoy a bit of solitude on his own terms.

Every night, around 7 o'clock, he would ask his wife for a back scratch, a small, tender ritual that became a treasured part of their daily life together and Ginger often reminded him how much she loved his blue eyes — a simple compliment that reflected the enduring love they shared over the decades.

Chris also had a creative heart. He wrote poetry and short stories, not for recognition but for the joy of expression. He had a quiet way of observing the world, finding meaning where others might pass by.

Above all, he was a man devoted to his family. He encouraged his children and grandchildren to read, to learn, and to think deeply - planting the seeds of curiosity and imagination that will continue to grow through generations.

Chris is preceded in death by his parents, Christy LeRoy Derbacher Sr. and Norma Louise Derbacher, along with his uncle, Bud VanCampen Sr. and his aunt, Barbara Ann Triplett. Here to carry on his memory are his loving wife of 54 years, Ginger, children, Scott (LeDonya) Derbacher and Kimberly (Jamie) Siegrist, grandchildren, Kaitlyn (James) Bratcher and Jackson Siegrist, his aunt, Shirley VanCampen and his cousins, Bud VanCampen Jr. and Carol Sue Wittman.

As we remember him today, we give thanks for the life he lived and the lives he touched. Though we feel his absence, the values he lived by — kindness, quiet strength and deep love— remain with all of us. In that way, his spirit continues.

Visitation will take place from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Friday, August 8th and from 9:00 am to 11:00 am on Saturday, August 9th at Newcomer Funeral Home (10304 Dixie Hwy). A service honoring Chris’s life will take place at 11:00 am at Saturday at the funeral. He will then be laid to rest with military honors at Cave Hill Cemetery.

May he rest now in peace — and perhaps among the stars he so often dreamed of.