Derek John “Hooty” DuHoux died August 2, 2023, from injuries sustained in an ag aviation accident which occurred July 25, 2023, in Chippewa County, Minnesota. Derek was 34 at the time of his passing. The members and staff of NAAA offer their sympathies and condolences to Derek’s family and friends. 

 

A native of Clara City, MN, Derek joined the Army National Guard in 2005 as an infantryman. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics from the University of North Dakota in 2011, he was commissioned to serve as an AH-64D Apache pilot in the Army. In 2020 he transitioned back to the National Guard, moved back to his home area, and eventually trained to become an aerial applicator. 

 

Derek was an avid fisherman, hunter, gardener and would always unselfishly help those in need. Even in death, he gave others life as an organ and tissue donor.  

 

A visitation and celebration of Derek’s life will be held August 10 & 11, 2023 at the Bethany Reformed Church in Clara City, MN; view details here. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a charity of your choice in memory of Derek DuHoux. Charities to consider: an aviation scholarship, American Legion, or other military affiliated group such as Ruck Life/23rd Veteran, First Responder organizations, or Lifesource (Donate Life). View a “Small Town Hero” news report on Derek’s life here.