John DeRidder

To know him was to love him.

With great sadness, the family announces the passing of a man who meant so much to so many, our beloved father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend. John DeRidder, 82, passed away surrounded by his family on March 24, 2026.

John was born to Louis and Elizabeth DeRidder in Deer Park, New York on January 23, 1944 and predeceased by his brothers Louis and Frank.

He was known to many as a gentle giant, a man of strength and a heart as big as his stature. In his younger days, he made his mark on the football field as #44, fullback for Babylon High School, where it was often said it took an army to bring him down. That same determination and resilience carried through every chapter of his life.

In 1965, he married his junior high sweetheart, Agatha, beginning a love story that would span 58 devoted years until her passing in 2024. Their marriage was a true partnership and a bond that served as an example to all who knew them.

He lived for his family and gave unconditional love in everything he did. Honest and a man of the utmost integrity, he led by example, earning the respect and admiration of everyone fortunate enough to know him. His greatest pride and joy was his family and the life he built with them.

He was self-employed as a mason contractor, known for his skill, speed, and craftsmanship. He was known for laying bricks with precision and speed, taking great pride in his work. Like the structures he built, he was dependable, strong, and enduring.

He is lovingly remembered by his children: Louis and Traci DeRidder, Melissa and Gary Birch, Bonnie and Marcus Hart, and Aussie and Donna Trainor. He was a proud grandfather to: Louis Jr., Megan Thompson (Brendan), Bradley Mussen, Bryce Mussen (Alexis), Isabella Hart and Amelia and Austin Trainor; and a cherished great-grandfather to Charlotte Thompson and Jonny Mussen, with two more great-grandchildren, Maria Thompson and Jameson Mussen, on the way.

Beyond his accomplishments, he will be remembered most for his kindness, his gentle nature, and the way he made others feel. He was the kind of man who didn’t need to say much to leave a lasting impression. His actions spoke for him.

His legacy of love, strength, and devotion will live on in all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Arrangements are under the direction of the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Sunday, March 29 at 2:00 PM, immediately followed by a service and Celebration of Life gathering at the Knights of Columbus, 50 Pine Rd. Saratoga Springs, NY.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com