Derek Thegen Rearden, 84, of Ocean City, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at home on August 7, 2026, surrounded by his family.
He was the beloved husband of Elaine Rearden for more than 60 years and the devoted father of Michael Rearden and his wife Lisa Rearden, Thomas Rearden, Susan O’Connell and her husband Patrick O’Connell, and John Rearden and his wife Sheila Rearden.
He is survived by his cherished grandchildren: Kelsey Rearden and Jack Rearden; Katie O’Connell, Abby O’Connell, and Gavin O’Connell; and Tyler Rearden.
Born on May 3, 1942, in London, United Kingdom, Derek came to the United States at the age of 8 with his late father, Eric Rearden, and settled in Pennsauken, New Jersey. He graduated from Merchantville High School and proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He later attended and graduated from Rutgers University in Camden, where he focused on business.
Derek was a talented certified financial planner (CFP) with Ameriprise Financial in Voorhees, New Jersey, where he worked alongside his sons and son-in-law. He served his clients with care and dedication and made a meaningful impact on their lives. Earlier in his career, he spent 25 years with Procter & Gamble.
Derek adored his family and was an avid golfer and fisherman. He loved living in Ocean City, New Jersey, and South Florida, where it felt like summer year-round. A proud Marine, he was a regular in the weekly Brambley golf league in Ocean City and at Palm Aire Country Club in Pompano Beach, Florida. What Derek appreciated most was hosting the annual Night in Venice party at the bay house, enjoying music, playing golf, riding his bike or simply sharing a good story. Derek had a way of making every gathering more fun. He truly was the life of the party.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his visitation at St. Frances Cabrini Church of St. Damien Parish, 2nd Street and Atlantic Avenue, Ocean City, New Jersey 08226, on Friday, September 4, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The memorial service will begin promptly at 11:00 a.m., followed by a local celebration at 12:30 p.m. A livestream of the mass will start at 11:00 am and can be found at https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/a26087976678228
Donations in lieu of flowers to:
American Legion
Post 524
In memory of
Derek T. Rearden
PO Box 363
4562 West Ave.
Ocean City, NJ 08226
Legion524ocnj.org
609-398-1751
Condolences may be left for the family at www.godfreyfuneralhome.com
