With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the life of Derek Deforest Rhinehart, who entered Heaven’s gates and is now with Jesus, watching over us all. Though our time with him feels far too short, Derek’s presence left an unforgettable mark. We take comfort knowing his vibrant spirit and unforgettable laugh live on, radiating joy from above.
Born in Billings, Montana on December 13, 1981, to Harry Rhinehart and Lori Reierson, Derek lived a life rich in adventure, laughter, and deep connection with both people and the land. As a young boy, he spent his summers and weekends with his beloved grandparents, Jack and Georgia Ferguson, learning the ways of ranch life. Whether he was breaking horses, roping cattle, or helping with branding, Derek dove into it all with grit and heart. He also learned to operate heavy farm equipment like a natural, skills that stayed with him for life. These years built the foundation of the hardworking man he would become.
After graduating from Forsyth High School in 2000, where he was awarded an art scholarship, Derek continued working the land he loved, living with his grandmother Georgia at the North 40 and working for Bill Swanson. He later moved to Billings to begin a career in sheet metal, but his heart always stayed connected to the ranching lifestyle and the people who made it special.
Derek’s smile could light up a room, and his one of a kind chuckle was contagious. His sense of humor could lift any spirit and turn an ordinary moment into one worth remembering. He was the kind of man who made you feel like you belonged. He was also a loyal friend, a fierce protector, and the kind of man who was always ready to help, especially with the toughest job no one else wanted to do. He took on life’s hardest tasks with an unstoppable, tenacious spirit and he had this quiet strength that those who knew him will never forget.
In August 2013 Derek and Ashley Kroll-McElroy welcomed what would be their biggest blessing in life, their son Deforest. After the birth of their son they moved to Anaconda, Montana. This was a decision rooted in love and devotion. There, he immersed himself in the joys of fatherhood, becoming an unwavering presence in Deforest’s life. Whether it was cheering from the sidelines at t-ball games, helping coach little league, or encouraging him through wrestling matches, Derek was all in. His pride in Deforest radiated in everything he did. Those who saw them together knew the depth of their bond and it was a relationship built on shared adventure, mutual respect, and a love that knew no bounds.
Above all, Derek’s greatest pride and joy was his son, Deforest. Derek found true joy in the outdoors, hiking, camping, mountain bike riding and fishing with his son and those he held close. Derek taught by example, showing Deforest what it meant to work hard, to laugh often, to love deeply, and to never give up, no matter how tough the road. Their bond was something special here on earth and Derek’s love for his son will forever echo in the memories they made and the man Deforest will continue to become.
He leaves behind his cherished son, Deforest; his father Harry Rhinehart of Billings and his brother Joshua Rhinehart; his mother Lori Reierson and stepfather Kenny of Glendive; his brother Wyatt Reierson of Forsyth; and his sister Kitiara Reierson of Billings. Derek is also reunited in Heaven with his grandparents Jack and Georgia Ferguson, Deforest and Betty Rhinehart and countless others who’ve gone before.
Though our hearts ache, we know Derek’s legacy lives on in the laughter we share, the mountains we climb, the unconditional love we give. Derek’s love was fierce and unwavering, and his legacy lives on in the strong, kind young man Deforest, his son, is becoming. We will miss Derek deeply. His smile, his stories, and the way he made life feel a little more joyful just by being in the room.
Until we meet again, Derek, keep watch over us with that big, crest kid smile and ever ready joke. You are so very loved and deeply missed
Memorial donations may be made in Derek’s name to Anaconda Little league where he thoroughly enjoyed and had pride for the sport of baseball located at Southwest Montana Community Federal Credit Union, 1035 West Park, Anaconda, MT 59711, 406-563-8484.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11am Saturday, July 26th at Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home, 107 Oak St., Anaconda. A reception will follow in the funeral home. Visit longfellowfinneganriddle.com to offer condolences or share a memory of Derek.
Axelson Funeral & Cremation Services is privileged to care Derek and his family.
Please visit below to leave a condolence or share a memory of Derek.
Service Schedule
Celebration of Life
11am
Saturday July 26, 2025
Longfellow Finnegan Riddle
107 Oak St.
Anaconda, MT 59711
Service Schedule
Celebration of Life
11am
Saturday July 26, 2025
Longfellow Finnegan Riddle
107 Oak St.
Anaconda, MT 59711
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Mina Rhinehart says
I loved you from the very beginning. We had some rough patches but we had more good patches. I experienced and learned so much with you. I couldn’t wait to be back up there with you but I lost you before I got there. No one wanted us together but no matter we never let go of eachother. You took my heart with you and will remain yours until I join my love. I love you and im lost without you.
Mandy says
You are one of my best friends and thinking of life without you in it just don’t seem right. I keep waiting for you to call to tell me your five miles away and you will stop to either make me laugh or to listen to me vent or both . But you never will again Thank you for being my friend and being in my life. I will never have a friend like you again, so until we meet again you will always have e a special place in my heart .
Mrs. White says
Please accept my deepest sympathy, may God take care of you at this hardest of all times
Revelation 21:4
Patty VanAsh says
To Derek’s family: We are so very sorry for your loss. The VanAsh family.