James L.
DeRose, age 84, of Winter Springs, Florida passed away on Tuesday, April 14,
2026 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.Jim was
born on January 16, 1942, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to James (Sr.) and Regina
(Dell) DeRose. He grew up in So
James L.
DeRose, age 84, of Winter Springs, Florida passed away on Tuesday, April 14,
2026 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.Jim was
born on January 16, 1942, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to James (Sr.) and Regina
(Dell) DeRose. He grew up in Somerset, Pennsylvania with his sister, Justine
and brother, John. Jim moved to Tempe, Arizona to attend Arizona State
University and graduated with a degree in Business, later earning his MBA from University
of Illinois.
He proudly
served his country in the United States Air Force for more than 30 years. Jim
retired as a Lt. Colonel. After retiring from the Air Force, he went to work at
Lockheed Martin for the next 25 years. He was also an active member of the Air
Force Association. He volunteered in many ways with his church, St. Stephen’s
Catholic Church. Jim’s favorite hobby was restoring and driving antique Ford
Mustangs. All three of his kids drove
Mustangs as their first cars. He loved traveling all over the world with his
beautiful bride, Sharon, and spending time with his family. He was known for
his New Year’s Day Omelet Breakfasts, which he hosted for more than 40 years.
We are raising funds to support the critical work of the Alzheimer's Association: providing care and support for families, advancing promising research and offering a lifeline through their free 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900). Every dollar raised helps ensure that no one faces Alzheimer's alone.
Thank you for your kindness and generosity.
