Derald Reese Bazil

Derald Reese Bazil, 67, of Leavenworth, Kansas, passed away Saturday, May 4, 2024 at Medicalodge of Leavenworth.

Derald was born September 6, 1956 in Emporia, KS. Derald grew up in Emporia, where he attended school, graduating in the Class of 1974 from Emporia High School. In June 1975, Derald was united in marriage with Deborah Bazil. Together, they had 3 children, Misty, Damon, and Matthew. They later divorced.

Throughout his life, Derald worked as a welder at Sauder Custom Fabrication in Emporia, KS and doing mechanic work. He loved to race dirt track and derby cars. Many days were spent as a family at race tracks and making demolition derby cars to compete against one another. He was also a motorcycle enthusiast and lover of rock music. All of this, plus his funky welding hats, made Derald the fun loving person his family and friends knew and cherished.

Later in life, Derald moved to Leavenworth, Kansas, where he lived until his passing. On Easter of 2024, he was preceded in death by his partner of almost 30 years, Patricia Cellier. He is also preceded by his father, Guy Bazil and step-mother, Imogene Bazil.

Derald is survived by his 3 children, Misty Davis of Osage City, KS, Damon Bazil (Amanda) of Iowa, Matthew Bazil of Emporia, KS, and their mother, Deborah Bazil-Sturm; step-son Lance Cellier of Leavenworth, KS and step-daughter, Stacy Gomez of Texas; brothers, Carl Bazil (Rhonda Moon) of Lyndon, KS and Kavin Bazil (Lenette) of Burlington, KS; 7 grandchildren, Paige Fletchall of Emporia, Carter Fletchall of Topeka, Domanic McCoy of Emporia, Gracy Bazil of Emporia, Ryder Bazil of Topeka, Emma and Parker Bazil of Iowa, and Chase Gomez of Texas; and 3 great-grandchildren, Dallas, Hazel, and Carson.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent c/o VanArsdale Funeral Chapel, 107 N 6th St, Osage City, KS 66523.