On April 6, 2025, the small town of Oregon, Ohio, received the heartbreaking news that Derek Besgrove, the former NAIA career rushing yards leader, beloved husband, father, and coach, had passed away.
Though the exact cause of his death remains unknown, the emptiness left by his death is already felt deeply by his family, friends, and the entire community that admired him.
Derek wasn’t just a record-breaking athlete and a man who lived for his family, inspired those around him, and left a fantastic mark on everyone he met.
Derek Besgrove, From Oregon, Ohio, Earned Recognition At Clay High School Before Becoming A National Standout
His passion for football took him to Walsh University, where he studied Criminal Justice and Sociology while tearing up the field as a running back.
Derek’s determined drive and raw talent led him to make history. He retired as the NAIA’s all-time career rushing yards leader, a record he still holds today.
Besgrove rushed for 5738yds at Walsh University from 2000-03.
Friends and teammates remember him as a “beast on the field” and a “freak athlete,” but to those who knew him best, his greatness went far beyond sports.
After college, he made his coaching debut with the Maumee Bay Turf Football Program in 2018 and was also on the coaching staff for the Clay High School Varsity football team.
Further, Derek moved into a career that shows his commitment to safety and community.
He worked as a Senior Process Safety Advisor at Cenovus Toledo Refinery, a role he began on July 8, 2024.
Before that, he served as a USW Process Safety Management Representative at Cenovus starting March 1, 2023, and spent over 16 years in a similar position at BP America from 2006 to 2023.
His work ethic, developed on the football field, carried over into every aspect of his professional life.
At the heart of Derek’s world was his family. On August 5, 2009, he married Erin Besgrove, his partner in life and love.
Erin, who studied occupational therapy at Owens Community College and criminal justice at the University of Toledo, stood by Derek in every chapter.
Together, they created a beautiful family with their three children: Bryce, Aubree, and Maya.
Bryce, 15, is a freshman who loves baseball and softball. He is carrying on his dad’s athletic legacy.
Aubree, 13, is a 7th grader and a talented softball player, while Maya, 12, is a 6th grader who shines on the volleyball court.
Derek was their biggest cheerleader, often seen on the sidelines coaching and encouraging them to chase their dreams.
After Derek Passed Away, Friends And Family Shared Love On Social Media, Posting Photos And Memories
A college teammate shared a tearful tribute that painted a vivid picture of the man he was.
And he wrote:
“As I type through the tears, my heart is heavy. Derek was more than just a teammate — he was an amazing man, a devoted father, a loving husband, and a proud son. Watching Derek’s relentless work ethic helped me understand what kind of sacrifice it would take to play college football. He was my brother — on and off the field.”
Via Facebook
He also remembered how Derek’s humor and positivity helped him during tough times in college.
Their late-night dorm hangouts were filled with laughter that echoed through the halls.
Another friend from Oregon recalled Derek’s role in the community:
“The city Oregon and Clay schools lost a great man yesterday. He loved to coach football and baseball, he lived for those kids. He will be missed by many, prayers to his family that they find the strength to get through the loss as they have been through a lot of loss. I thank God everyday I wake up to another day because you never know when it will be your last. I will never know why God takes the good ones to soon.”
Via Facebook
Derek’s dedication to coaching wasn’t just about winning games; it was about building character and giving kids the tools to rise above life’s challenges, just as he had.
His son Bryce’s heartbreaking goodbye on social media,
“RIP dad I love you big man you’ll be missed❤️ #LLD44,” captures the depth of their bond.
Friends and loved ones have stepped up to help ease the burden on Erin and the kids.
A Venmo account has been set up for immediate donations to the Besgrove family, while a trust fund for Bryce, Aubree, and Maya is in the works.
A Meal Train is available for people to sign up to provide meals as the family goes through this difficult time.
From the football fields of Walsh University to the sidelines of his kids’ games, from the refinery floors to the dorm rooms where he made lifelong friends, Derek lived fully and gave generously.
His NAIA rushing record may have made him a legend, but how he loved his family and lifted others will keep his memory alive.
Rest in Heaven, Derek Besgrove. #44
