MCFARLAND - Derek William Schwarting, age 25, of McFarland, passed away from injuries sustained in a car accident on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at St. Mary's Hospital. He was born on October 25, 2000, in Madison, the son of Marc and Traci (Liebscher) Schwarting.

Derek graduated from McFarland High School in 2019, where he was a standout athlete and quarterback (No.7) on the football team, setting multiple records during his time on the field. He went on to attend the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, earning a degree in Physics in December 2023. A dedicated student, Derek graduated magna cum laude and was a member of the Golden Key International Honor Society.

Following graduation, Derek began his career with Globalcom Technologies, where he quickly distinguished himself through his work ethic, intelligence, and leadership. After two years with the company, he was promoted to project manager, overseeing the company's largest project to date. He played an integral role in implementing new software systems and became known as the “go-to” person among his colleagues. His impact was made even more special by the fact that two of his siblings also worked alongside him.

In September 2022, Derek underwent open-heart surgery due to a severe infection. This life-changing experience inspired him to found “With Heart Mission,” a charitable organization dedicated to giving back to his community. Through this work, he organized events, raised funds, hosted a podcast, and established a secondary education scholarship for a student pursuing a degree in the medical field, leaving a lasting legacy of generosity and compassion. Derek was determined to overcome every obstacle and to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Derek also gave back through coaching, serving as a football coach at McFarland High School and volunteering at youth basketball clinics. He had a natural ability to lead and inspire, always encouraging others to strive for their best.

Derek had a deep love for life and adventure. He enjoyed traveling and embraced every experience, whether exploring destinations such as France, Iceland, England, Germany, Italy, Greece, Spain, Portugal, Hawaii, the Pacific Northwest, and the Colorado Mountains. He loved taking in a beautiful sunrise or sunset. He cherished family ski trips and beach vacations.

An active and energetic person, Derek loved golf, skiing, basketball, football, boating, and running local races. Physical fitness was an important part of his life, becoming even more meaningful following his heart surgery.

Derek had a special gift of bringing people together and serving as the glue that kept everyone connected. Above all, Derek will be remembered for his warmth, his infectious laughter, and the way he expressed love so naturally-often without needing to say a word.

Even now he is still giving-his final gift-through organ donation, it is the most perfect reflection of who he is; someone who gives all that he has so that others can have more.

Derek is survived by his parents, Marc (Beverly Semmann) and Traci (Craig Hanson); brothers, Tyler Schwarting, Brian Semmann and Jacob Semmann; sister, Kristin (Austyn) Quarters; and nephew, Kohen Quarters; godparents, Brooke Dobbs and Sherri Liebscher; loving grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins; girlfriend, Teagan Mallegni; and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Howard Liebscher and William Schwarting; and cousin, Mack Winsauer.

A celebration of life for Derek will be held at MCFARLAND LUTHERAN CHURCH, 5529 Marsh Road, McFarland, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 4, 2026. Family and friends who wish to view the celebration via LIVESTREAM may visit Derek’s obituary page at www.gundersonfh.com at the time of the celebration and click on "Watch Now" in the Webcast section. Visitation will be held at the church from 9 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday.

Memorials may be made to the Derek Schwarting Memorial Fund. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson Stoughton
Funeral & Cremation Care
1358 Highway 51 N. at Jackson St.
(608) 873-4590

Derek William Schwarting

October 25, 2000 - March 26, 2026

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