The Wayzata hockey community mourns the unexpected loss of beloved coach Derek Krueger, known for his passion and support for young athletes.
His sudden death has united families, players, and friends in shared grief, as they remember a man who gave so much to the game he loved.
Derek was a Mentor, a Role Model, and a True Friend to Everyone Around Him
A graduate of Apple Valley Senior High School, he brought his deep-rooted love for hockey to the rinks of Wayzata, where he poured countless hours into the Wayzata Youth Hockey Association (WYHA).
As one of the squirt coaches for the Memphis team a couple of years back, Derek was known for his no-nonsense style.
He pushed kids to hone their skills relentlessly, never settling for anything less than their best.
Parents like Tia appreciated this approach, seeing how it built character and drive in their children.
But beneath that brutal exterior beat a heart as big as the ice itself.
Derek had a special way of connecting with players, offering pointers, feedback, and invitations to extra workouts, tournaments, and even backyard skates.
He took one young player, Memphis, under his wing, praising his work ethic, on-ice smarts, unselfish play, and positive energy.
“Set goals and chase dreams,” Derek would tell him, words that echoed far beyond the rink.
His endless patience and belief in every kid who laced up skates made him a standout figure in youth hockey.
Whether celebrating a big win or guiding someone through a setback, Derek led with compassion and quiet strength.
The WYHA captured the community’s sorrow in their official statement:
“With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Coach Derek Krueger. The Wayzata hockey community is deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of Coach Derek Krueger. Derek gave countless hours to WYHA and made a lasting impact on players, families, and our program. Please keep the Krueger family in your thoughts.”
Via Facebook
Many People who knew him have Shared Tributes, highlighting his Widespread Influence Over the Years
Travis Senenfelder recalled a touching moment from his last conversations with Derek during tryouts. Travis recalled.
“We were standing against the glass at one of the two open scrimmages, He looks at me. Says I looked like a kid holding my pecker needing to pee. My response—I was a little nervous as to how this tryout was going to shake out. He said… chill out, have a chew, and go take a piss, knowing damn well that I didn’t have to pee. A few days later, when I saw him at the rink again. He says to me… glad to see you took a piss—I told you your kid was looking fine out there and that you didn’t need to stress so much.
Via Faceook
Travis expressed deep emotion while dealing with his loss-:
“Yesterday… we lost him… unable to say goodbye. Leaving many in our social circle frustrated. Leaving a son of mine asking Tia and me a couple of times tonight if Coach Derek really had passed away—followed by all the typical questions a young man would ask. Memphis was treated like a young man today, and his questions were answered, and an additional conversation was had. Our family doesn’t need your thoughts and prayers, but another family does… I am going to ask my network… to raise Derek’s family. Your thoughts, prayers, and, if willing, generosity would be much appreciated by them.”
Via Facebook
Ryan Payne’s tribute was more straightforward but no less heartfelt:
These stories highlight how Derek’s humor, honesty, and humanity touched lives in ways that will endure long after the final buzzer.
Derek leaves behind his loving wife, Lisa, and their four beautiful children, who now face an unimaginable void without their husband and father.
In times like these, the hockey family rallies together.
A GoFundMe set up by Kristi Hendricks has already raised over $30,000 toward a $35,000 goal to cover funeral expenses and provide stability for the months ahead.
Additionally, a Meal Train has been organized to bring meals to the family, allowing them to focus on healing.
As the organizers wrote:
“As many of you know, the Krueger family lost their beloved husband and father, Derek. To help ease their burden during this incredibly difficult time, we are organizing a meal train to take one thing off their plates and allow them to focus on each other. If you’d like to participate, please sign up for a date to deliver a meal (homemade or ordered). The goal is to make their daily life a little easier as they grieve and adjust.”
Via mealtrain
Derek Krueger’s passion for hockey went far beyond the ice, inspiring young athletes to dream big and play with heart.
Those who knew him will forever carry his lessons of grit, kindness, and never giving up.
Rest easy, Coach. You’ll always be part of this hockey family, skating alongside us in spirit.
The Wayzata community and the wider world of youth hockey will miss you dearly.
He sounds like a great guy it reminds me of my brother Roger Schaefer Austin MN he had the same passion for kids and hockey 🏒 RIP Dereck