John Alan DeRuiter, age 71, left his earthly home on Saturday, July 19, 2025 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He was preceded in death by his parents Andrew and Dorothy (Bremmer) DeRuiter, and his brother Thomas DeRuiter. He grew up in Jenison, Michigan and graduated from Unity Christian High School. He went on to become an electrician at Swartz Electric. He also spent part of his career working for Steelcase and retired from Ridgeview Industries in 2015. He was always a bit of a rebel with his long hair or beard, racing cars, and love of rock music. After meeting on a blind date, he married his wife Jessica, on November 14, 1979. They celebrated 45 years of marriage this past November. After retirement, they enjoyed traveling to Florida, South Carolina, and Northern Michigan.

His children Jennifer (Brett) Kidd, Jodi (Alfonso) Gonzalez, and Jonathan DeRuiter will remember him for his ability to help fix almost anything and his sense of adventure. He was always up for fishing, going to a hockey game, watching a good storm, taking a spontaneous family trip, or riding the biggest roller coaster he could find.

His four grandsons always knew him as a jokester. Brady, Jackson, Julius, and Silas called him either Papa John or Papo. He was so proud of them and enjoyed watching them play baseball and soccer over the years. They followed him around while he tinkered and shared in his love of fishing. He is also survived by his grand-dog Max, who he loved to spoil.

He will also be missed by his brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services have been scheduled for Wednesday, July 23, 2:00 pm at Zaagman Memorial Chapel (2800 Burton St. SE, GR, 49546) with Rev. Chris DeVos (John's brother-in-law) officiating. The family will greet relatives and friends from 1-2 pm, prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Cancer Society .