Derek was an avid fisherman. You could find Derek fishing any chance he could get! He loved working out at the gym, playing golf, watching Nebraska athletics, and helping people. Derek had an unwavering love for animals, especially their family pets through the years. He graduated from Lincoln Southeast High School in 2002, where he played football. Derek was a member of the South Lincoln Track Club from age 4 to 13. Derek competed at National Junior Olympic Track Meets in Baton Rouge, Louisiana (4×1 Relay) and San Jose, California (4×8 Relay). Growing up, Derek loved spending time at his grandparents’ farm. He was always eager to help out his grandpa with any chores.
Derek is survived by his parents, Lonnie and Linda; brother, Devin (Katie Elder) Mueller; his son, Zayden Mueller; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Eldon and Carol (Coon) Mueller and Earl and Delores (Bohaty) Scott; and uncles, Leslie Mueller and Jan Fricke.
A funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at Lincoln Berean Church Youth Complex (6400 S 70th St, Lincoln, NE 68516).
A visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at Roper and Sons South Chapel (3950 Hohensee Dr, Lincoln, NE 68516).
Memorials to the family for future designation.