Travis "Willy" Dercks

Travis “Willy” Dercks was given the gift of life on November 18, 1985 to Tom & Marie Dercks, a gift that was sadly given back on April 11, 2018. Travis was never a man of many words but you always felt his kind heart and strong personality. Travis loved snowmobile racing, Jack-and-Coke, the family cottage and his “toys” of which his truck & snowmobile were his pride and joy.

His life path was altered on a fateful day May 16, 2007. Travis suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury due to an industrial accident. Though this accident laid out a path full of physical hurdles, Travis never chose to be the victim. He never chose to stop amazing those around him-he was our fighter! Through these hurdles, Travis showed unmatched strength and determination allowing him to remain around his most cherished thing – family and those he loved. His never ending struggle to gain back a life lost made his final fight too cumbersome on a tired soul. It’s been an honor, a privilege and our greatest joy to raise this beautiful and kind-hearted young man as our own. To say we are proud of him is an understatement!

Travis’ job over the last eleven years was to simply teach those around him many valuable life lessons: love and determination, what’s truly important; a smile can fix anything; music can be your motivation-“Simply the Best”; he made you a softer-stronger-compassionate-better person by simply knowing him. Travis gently reminded those he encountered that a traumatic brain injury may have taken his voice but it definitely didn’t take his roar! Above all; acceptance for those most vulnerable.

To those who never gave up on Travis’ journey we are forever grateful. The love, care and acceptance you have shown both Travis and his family sustained us through the darkest of moments allowing celebration of all those gains. The Dercks family has become so much larger because of Travis.

Travis will always be loved and missed by his sisters Melissa and Kristin (Ben) Duffy. Leaving behind nieces and nephews Mase, Mera & Grey Duffy and Beckett Dercks who will miss those chair rides and Uncle snuggles on the mat. Grandmother Mary Lamers along with many aunts and uncles. Travis was greeted upon passing by grandparents Ben/Claire Dercks; Bob Lamers and GB. Our blessing may have been cut short but feel honored to have called Travis our son, brother, nephew, uncle and grandson!

Travis was loved and cared for deeply by his “angels” Tina; Sam, Sarah, Robin, Amy, Brittany, Terry, Cora, Crystal, Deb, Gail, Krista, Kelly, Mehgan along with so many others over the years. Therapists who never stopped pushing Travis forward. Best friend Todd Schuh and Bill Stingle who remained true to the end. Special thanks to Travis’ Physicians-Dr Taleon; Dr Duppler; Dr VanSistine; Dr Zantow; Dr Wascher; Dr Karl Green; Dr Novak & Dr Bellg along with Fox Valley Pulmonology Medicine; ThedaCare Hospitalists Group & System for seeing beyond the physical limitations providing highest level of care and compassion. To Chaplain KC for being their day one and holding our hands on the last! Travis made everyone a better person by simply knowing him. You should all be proud & share in Travis’ successes!

There was so much more to do but we gave Travis our blessings to spread his wings and fly. Until we meet again; may your spirit & memories carry us and your love remain attached to our broken hearts. You will remain the glue holding us together – Rest Easy, ride slow & fly high 191!

The entire Dercks family will have a celebration of Travis’ life on August 11th starting at 3:30pm at Travis’ favorite place – family yard. Those wishing to celebrate Travis’ life are welcome!