Derick Matthew Kaplinger, 28, of Middleboro passed away on Friday, June 17, 2022. Born in Brockton on September 3, 1993, he was the son of Derick and Patty Anne Kaplinger. He was a 2012 graduate of Middleboro High School. Derick is survived by his mother Patty and stepfather Michael Esposito of Middleboro, his father Derick of Brockton, and siblings Tyler Kaplinger, Hannah Kaplinger, Stephen Esposito, and Erica Esposito. He is also survived by his long-time girlfriend Jenna Pittsley and her son Brady, grandparents William and Anne O'Hara, Christine Kaplinger, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Derick was the brother of the late Haley Kaplinger (1999) who he remembered and honored often. Derick and Jenna were committed to building their life together. They spent many years making memories and bringing out the best in each other. Derick was especially proud of the role he had, and the opportunity to be a positive influence in Brady's life. He enjoyed introducing him to both fishing and sports, which put a smile on both of their faces. He will also be missed terribly by his two fur-babies, Brix and Indy. Derick was kind, loving, and adventurous. He could connect with, and make friends with anyone, anywhere. When he entered a room, he changed the energy. He is best known for his infectious smile, and his natural ability to make others feel good. He had a deep love for his family, which he expressed often, and was a self-proclaimed "mama's boy", #mamasboy, #idc. Many of Derick's favorite times were spent with his longtime and loyal friends, some of whom he knew for over 20 years. He cared deeply for and looked forward to every opportunity to spend time with them. His friends were family to him! Derick was a natural athlete with a passion, determination, and competitiveness that he brought to every activity from Little League and Pop Warner through his successful career at Middleboro High School, where he played football and baseball. He continued his enjoyment of sports by playing flag football in Plymouth and Weymouth, and softball in the Carver and Bridgewater men's leagues. He was most recently employed as a Plumber's Apprentice by P&S Mechanical, Inc.; and was previously employed by D&S Delivery as a Ground Carrier. Derick will be missed by his family and friends. Funeral from the Russell & Pica Funeral Home, 17 Main St., (RT105) Lakeville on Friday, June 24th at 9:00AM thence to St. Isidore Parish/Sacred Heart Church, 340 Center St., Middleboro where a funeral mass will be celebrated for the repose of his soul at 10:00AM. Interment will follow in Central Cemetery, East Bridgewater. Calling hours in the Funeral Home on Thursday from 4:00PM-8:00PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Derick Kaplinger Scholarship Fund at North Easton Savings Bank. Scholarship donations can be mailed to 336 Plymouth Street, Halifax, MA 02338 and they may be accepted at all branch locations.