Derek Lee Winebrenner

It is with profound sadness that the family of Derek Lee Winebrenner announces his abrupt passing from a cardiac event on February 24th 2026, at the age of 62. Although he was a resident of Hilton Head Island, S.C., Derek was born in Louisville, Kentucky to his parents Edwin and Janet Popham Winebrenner. 

He was a proud graduate of Saint Xavier High School in Louisville, then attended Tulane University, becoming a member of Delta Tau Delta and its “21 Club”. He proceeded to graduate from the University of Kentucky with Bachelor Degrees in Psychology and Physician Assistant Studies. He practiced nearly exclusively in orthopedics for over 30 years, initially in Lexington, Kentucky, then later in the Hilton Head Island area. Derek was respected by colleagues, revered by his patients, and admired by the multitude of students he taught and mentored throughout his career.

As much as Derek loved caring for others, watching his favorite teams play, spending time with loved ones and playing in the epic annual Winebrenner Open Golf Tournament, the greatest source of his joy and pride were his children and grandsons. He was their most devoted cheerleader, never hesitating to provide his time, talent, and treasure for their education and passions. No call was too late, no wish was too great. 

Derek truly endeavored to imbue them with the belief that life was meant to be fully lived and celebrated, and to view every day as a gift. Derek was abundantly gifted with charm, kindness, compassion, patience, and a very broad sense of humor-a truly magnetic personality. If you had only just met Derek, you were his friend but if you had the good fortune to spend a bit more time with him, you cherished him forever. Although his time on earth was too brief, his mark is indelibly etched on our hearts.

Derek was predeceased by his mother Janet and infant daughter, Rachel. Left to mourn his untimely passing are his devoted wife, Sherri Baer, beloved children; sons Alex (Alyssa), Max, and his daughter, Madison, grandsons Elijah and William, as well as his father Ed, brothers Steve (Cheri), and Rob (Becky), sister, Dawn, and brother-in-law, Donnie Baer. He leaves behind several nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and a legion of dear friends, who will sadly miss him.

“A life that touches others goes on forever”

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at this time, but will be held in Louisville, Kentucky at the Bardstown Road location of Ratterman & Sons Funeral Home.

Memorial donations are to be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, in lieu of flowers.