Derek E Reynolds

Derek E. Reynolds, 38, of Elkhart, Indiana, passed away on October 4, 2025. He was born on March 13, 1987, in Bluffton, Indiana, to Elizabeth Grupy and Ronny Reynolds.

Derek was truly one of a kind — funny, hardworking, stubborn in the best way, and loved by everyone who knew him. He had a big heart, a goofy sense of humor, and a middle-finger greeting that somehow managed to say “I love you” every single time.

He loved live music, disc golf, and spending time with his kids and his brother — his lifelong best friend. Derek could make anyone laugh and was always there when you needed him. Life was better, louder, and funnier with him around.

He was a proud husband and dad, and nothing meant more to him than his wife Kayla Reynolds, and their children Elias, Oliver, London, and Teagan. He is also survived by his parents Elizabeth (and stepfather Bill) and Ronny Reynolds (and stepmother Kimberly D); brothers Christopher Michael Ehrhart (and sister-in-law Chelsea), Nathan Dale Reynolds (and sister-in-law Chene), Tony Grupy, CJ Grupy; sister Ashli Grupy; nieces Kaylynn Reynolds, Leigha Reynolds, and Arryana Ehrhart; nephews Jace Reynolds, Collyn Ehrhart, and Christopher Ehrhart Jr.; and many other family and friends who loved him deeply.

He was preceded in death by his other father Redbud (Clarence Michael Ehrhart) and paternal grandparents Sally and Richard Workman.

Derek fought a tough battle with his mental health, and while we may never fully understand his pain, we take comfort knowing he is now at peace — probably cracking jokes and flipping people off in heaven.

A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at St. Paul United Methodist Church at 405 W. Beardsley Ave.  Elkhart, In.  From 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Come as you are — bring your laughter, stories, and maybe even flip him off one last time for good measure.

In honor of Derek, if you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help. Call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You are not alone.

Elkhart Cremation Services has been entrusted with his care.

 

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