Milwaukee native David Derzon, of Glendale, passed away on Dec. 20 of brain cancer. He was 82.
Derzon enlisted in the U.S. Air Force at the age of 17 (with a signature from his mother) after Pearl Harbor. He served as a bombardier during World War II from the Tinian Islands in Japan.
Following the war, Derzon worked with his father and uncle, first in a hardware store, then as an auctioneer, where he discovered the value of rare coins. Derzon operated his own business, the David Derzon Coin Company, Inc. in West Allis for over 45 years. He also worked as an auctioneer for the Milwaukee Police Department for 20 years, auctioning off stolen and unclaimed items for the force.
Despite his illness, Derzon operated his business every day until a couple of months ago, according to his son, Alan.
Derzon, whose family was one of the first at Congregation Shalom, will be remembered for his extreme generosity, wonderful sense of humor, and his intelligence, his family said.
He was preceded in death by sister, Shirley Lawent of Milwaukee, and first wife, the former Fay Recht of Milwaukee. Derzon is survived by his wife, Rebecca Ruth Johnson, sons, Alan (Dalyn) Derzon of Milwaukee and Mark Derzon of Bakersfield, Calif.; 10 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Funeral arrangements were handled by Blane Goodman Funeral Service, LLC. Rabbi Jacob Herber officiated at services on Dec. 21 at Northshore Funeral Services. Burial was in Second Home Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Congregation Shalom Education Fund, Congregation Beth Israel, or the cancer research of your choice.
Loading ...