04/27/2026
To our Run the Cedar friends, this morning our favorite bluegrass friend that played out on course from 2022-2025 entered into the Savior’s arms after a courageous battle against esophageal cancer. Derwin and his beautiful wife Alene had become cherished friends to FCA’s Run the Cedars.
They were missed greatly at the race this year but even in his sickness he wanted to make sure we had what we needed and sent his friends to play in his place.
When Derwin wasn’t on the banjo or entertaining people with his music, he was spreading Christmas cheer as the best Santa around. Whether you saw him in his red suit at the symphony or the governor’s mansion, you were touched by his infectious joy.
Even more than his love of music, family, or playing Santa, his love for Christ always came first. So while we will miss him dearly, we take peace in knowing he has entered eternal life with his Savior Jesus.
Derwin leaves behind his beautiful wife Alene and so many others that loved him.
Please whisper a prayer of comfort for this family and their friends