MARSHALL - Alan J. “Al” Derus, age 65, passed away unexpectedly from cardiac issues on Thursday, Jan. 20, 2022. Al was born on March 13, 1956, in Madison, Wis., the son of Gerald and Elizabeth (Blackbird) Derus.

Al was united in marriage to Sandy (Sherman) Peterson on May 22, 1992, in Hawaii. He graduated from UW-Eau Claire in 1979 and went on to have a successful career in sales for Patterson Dental, retiring in 2014. Al also volunteered for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Dane County. He had a passion for snow skiing, golfing, competing in triathlons and several Ironman events. Al enjoyed spending time at the cottage in the north woods, no matter the season. After retirement, he spent a lot of time in Naples, Florida. He loved the sunshine and the ocean. He loved spending time with his family and friends. He touched the lives of many people and left a positive impression.

Al was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and Elizabeth Derus. He is survived by his wife, Sandy; stepmother, Darlene; sister, Gail (Tom) Krekel; brothers, Steven (Sandy), Kevin (Vicki), Jeffrey (Laurie), and Michael (Tamala); nieces and nephews, Christy, Sarah, Lindsay, Ryan, Katelyn, Nathan, Nicholas, Adam, Alex, Julia, Jennifer, Jeffrey and Emilee who all adored and loved their Uncle Al.

A visitation will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 9 a.m. until 12 noon on Saturday, Feb. 19, 2022. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Dane County. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Alan Joseph Derus

March 13, 1956 - January 20, 2022

Share photos of Alan