INVERNESS, Fla. — Capt. Tad Arlen Derf, 82, Homosassa, Fla., died Wednesday, March 14, 2018, at his residence.
He was born Nov. 8, 1935, in Columbia City, the son of the late John and Irene Schultz Derf.
He was a retired commander for the U.S. Navy. He received master’s degrees from George Washington University and from the U.S. Naval War College. Upon retirement, he attained the rank of captain with the U.S. Merchant Marines and served for many years as a ship's pilot for the Upper Great Lakes Pilots Association.
Capt. Derf was preceded in death by his parents and his wife of 53 years, Patsy R. Derf.
Survivors include a son, David M. Derf, Portland, Ore.; a daughter, Karen E. Derf, Homosassa; a brother, Tim Derf, Palmetto, Fla.; and four granddaughters: Kelsey and Nicole Derf and Amanda and Ava Reilly.
Burial with full military honors will be at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery.
Arrangements are by the Homosassa Chapel of Hooper Funeral Homes & Crematory.
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Condolences may be sent to the family at www. HooperFuneralHome.com.
