Joel “Dalton” Derr, 86, passed away on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, in Ontario, Ohio. He was born May 30, 1939, to Arthur LeMonie and Mabel (Stranton) Derr, in Mansfield, Ohio.
Dalton was truly larger than life. A 1957 graduate of Mansfield Senior High School, he went on to become a world-class musician, performing at the Metropolitan Opera in New York and mentoring students who would later grace the Broadway stage. His passion for music extended beyond performance—he directed church choirs, the Mansfield Y Choir, and numerous theater groups, leaving a lasting mark on his community.
Beyond the stage, Dalton found deep joy in the outdoors. He had a special love for nature and was an active member of the Mansfield Men’s Garden Club, where he served as Master. In that role, he continually sought out meaningful programs and projects to enrich and beautify the community he cared so much about.
Dalton embraced life with enthusiasm and a keen appreciation for its beauty. His vibrant energy and theatrical spirit made every encounter memorable—he had a gift for making people feel seen and remembered, and in turn, he left an unforgettable impression on everyone he met.
Dalton is survived by his wife, Janeen; his daughter, Lisa (Rich) Gacer; his grandson, Cam Gacer; stepdaughter, Jennifer Traxler; and step-grandchildren, Colin, Megan, Kaitlin, and Tori.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Gracia.
Family and friends are invited to visitation on Monday, April 20, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Wappner Funeral Directors – Ontario, 100 S. Lexington-Springmill Road. The funeral service will be at the funeral home on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 11:00 AM, officiated by Pastor Tim Schatterer. Burial will follow at Mansfield Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be made to the North-End Community Improvement Collaborative, Attention: Manfield Men’s Garden Club, 134 N. Main Street, Mansfield, OH 44902
Words of condolence may be expressed at www.wappner.com.
Funeral Home: Wappner Funeral Directors and Crematory-Ontario
Website: www.wappner-ontario.com