Malta, NY - It is with profound sorrow that we announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Justin Kreider, age 47, who suffered a fatal heart attack on Thursday, December 29.  Known to friends and family as "JK" or "Turtle," Justin was a devoted husband to Melissa Read Kreider, father to Allison (13) and Dylan (10), and son to Karen Jarvis and the late Charles Kreider.

Justin grew up in Saratoga Springs, NY as an original member of the "Geyser Crest Kids."  Energetic and adventurous, he loved exploring the outdoors whether hiking, snowboarding, boating on Lake George, or visiting family on Cape Cod and in Florida. A dog-lover, loyal friend, and natural-born caretaker, he delighted in hosting his tight-knit and ever-growing circle of friends, who he impressed with his prodigious memory for baseball and music stats and facts, along with his stellar culinary skills. But of all his interests, nothing rivaled Justin's enthusiasm for music. When it came to seeing one of his favorite bands live, no venue was too far away. Live concerts were among his most treasured celebrations with friends and family.

Justin's first job at The Trattoria restaurant sparked a lifelong enthusiasm for food service, which he spun into a twenty-five year career growing his cooking skills at restaurants in Park City, Utah, Portland, Oregon, and Saratoga. In 2021, Justin was proud to embark on a new trade, and quickly honed his skills as City Water Meter Tech. Of course, he stayed on in the cherished role of family chef.

On a beautiful September day in 2007, Justin and Melissa committed to a life of love, laughs, and adventure. Two years later, Justin discovered a new purpose in life when his first child, Allie, was born. He considered fatherhood his greatest achievement, and it showed.  He shared his love of collecting with both kids, helping Allie gather stuffed animals and crystals, and strategizing about baseball and Pokémon cards with Dylan. They loved sharing Star Wars marathons and watching sports games, taking long bike rides, and breaking into spontaneous dance parties.

Justin was preceded in death by his father, Charles Kreider; and is survived by his wife, Melissa Read Kreider;  their children, Allison and Dylan Kreider; his mother, Karen (Dave) Jarvis; his sister, Erica (Bill) Mooney; his in-laws Ellen and Bob Kanuck; his sister-in law, Laurel Jones; nieces and nephew Cierra, Haley, and Eden Mooney; Abigail and Matthew Jones.

Relatives and friends may call from 1-4 pm, Sunday January 8, 2023 at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (518-584-5373).

A Memorial Service will be held at 11 am, Monday, January 9, 2023 in the Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church at the corner of Fifth Ave. and Henning Road.

Burial will be private.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com