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BORN
2001
DIED
2017
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John Robert Riddell Obituary
Born Dec 21, 2001 in Fort Lauderdale Florida, Died Aug 19, 2017 1055 PM in West Jordan, Utah John was a loving child that saw the good in everyone he met. He had a heart of gold and his smile lit up a room. The first ten years of his life was in Florida and then he split time in Florida, Utah and Czech Republic in the summers with his grandparents who absolutely adored him. He made friends wherever he went. He loved his X-box, Skateboard, Reese's peanut butter cups, and Star wars movies. His sister Robyn and him were best friends and doted on each like two peas in a pod. John's best friends Kadence Matern and Kandon Carter were there to protect him when the cyber bullying began.
They loved John very much.
There is an outpouring of support in this community to stop cyber bullying from the Governor's office, state board of education to the students and teachers at West Jordan middle and high school plus the local community.
They are putting a program together to stop cyber bullying and teach parents how to recognize the signs to prevent another tragedy like this one.
John is survived by his father Robert Allen Riddell, his Mother Gabriela Szkanderova, his sister Robyn, Aunt Lyn, Aunt Kim, Grandmother Faye, Uncle Jack, cousins Jaqueline and Jennah. His Uncle John, Aunt Jody and Jill and their families. Grandparents Jarmila and Jan Szkandera, Aunt Barbora and Uncle Mark, cousins Tomas, Micheal, Emily, Shelby and Naill.
Funeral Services were held at privately on Aug 24th with his immediate family and a public memorial was held on Aug 26th at Memorial Redwood Mortuary and Cemetery, 6500 south Redwood Road, West Jordan, Utah.
Donations can be made to www.stompoutbullying.org
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Robert Riddell
Sponsored by Memorial Redwood Mortuary & Cemetery - West Jordan.
Rob Riddell
August 18, 2025
John, you enter my mind everyday. Even today on the anniversary of your passing you vividly came into my thoughts and said inner most secrets you held to me. I listened and understand . I love you son. And miss you everyday. And from reading others post . A friend of yours Emily is still in contact with you and is thankful for being a part of your short life. You have missed by many and loved by all and still are. Love Dad
Emily
August 17, 2025
John. I love you. I still miss you. I think about you often. I still have that hug token you gave me. I remember you each time I see those Milka chocolates. Every year on your birthday and on the anniversary, I stop by the store, and I get a Powerade, and a bag of crazy bread. I wish I had been better about writing you on here. It is still hard. I had a dream about you, once, right after you died. And sometimes when I go to bed I think about that. And I hope to meet you there again. And then I worry if that's selfish. I wish we had gotten the chance to know each other as adults. I love you. I hope you know somehow. I don't know when the next time I'll be here again is. But please know I am remembering. I love you.
Rob Riddell- Father
January 29, 2023
John,
You would have turned 21 this year in August 2023. I think about you everyday and wish I could have been there to protect you. I had to find after I investigated that you were being cyber bullied 24/7 and also bullied in West Jordan, Utah . I love you such and I am still devastated by this.
Your Dad
June 22, 2022
John,
We got your message with the lights going off and on and taped it so your Sister Robyn could see it. When we said your name and asked you to turn the left light on . You did, and to make sure we were not imagining it Crystsal said "John, can you turn the right light on?". And it came on. We did that a couple times. And you switched them on and off by our voice. It was a sign that you are "OK" and were with us. I feel your presence all the time and talk to you. I love you with all my heart! Dad
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Robert Riddell
December 20, 2020
John it’s your 19th birthday and I miss you so much. It’s been fours years and Your sister and I think of you every and even more on your birthday Dec 21st and Aug 19. We wish you would have reached out to either of us to help from the cyber bullying and torment you must have went through. We love you with all our hearts.
Robert Riddell
December 20, 2020
John it’s your 19th birthday and I miss you so much. It’s been fours years and Your sister and I think of you every and even more on your birthday Dec 21st and Aug 19. We wish you would have reached out to either of us to help from the cyber bullying and torment you must have went through. We love you with all our hearts.
Robert Riddell
August 19, 2020
John, I love you with all my heart and always will. You did not deserve what happened to you. Your sister and I miss you terribly. I’m watching Star Wars today in honor of you and thinking of you, love Dad
April 8, 2019
We love and miss you so much John I hope you're doing good up there Buddy.
Emily Smith
December 22, 2017
Your birthday just passed. I did my best to keep to our traditions, as silly as they seemed. I wish I could've behind the store that we use to get drinks at. Happy 16th birthday, my friend. If you're somewhere in the clouds, just beyond our sight, I hope you had a good celebration. I love you.
John and cousins Katka and Thomas ( little boy in front) in Mosty U Jablunkova, Czech Republic
Robert Allen Riddell
November 13, 2017
John and cousin Katka in Mosty U Jablunkova, Czech Republic
Robert Allen Riddell
November 13, 2017
John and Cousin Katka in Mosty U Jablunkova, Czech Republic
Robert Allen Riddell
November 13, 2017
John in Mosty U Jablunkova, Czech Republic
Robert Allen Riddell
November 13, 2017
John in Mosty U Jablunkova, Czech Republic
Robert Allen Riddell
November 13, 2017
Letter written to friend in Mosty U Jablunkova, Czech Republic right before his death by cyber bullying
Robert Allen Riddell
November 13, 2017
John in Mosty U Jablunkova, Czech Republic
Robert Allen Riddell
November 13, 2017
John in Mosty U Jablunkova, Czech Republic
Robert Allen Riddell
November 13, 2017
John in Mosty U Jablunkova, Czech Republic
Robert Allen Riddell
November 13, 2017
Robert Allen Riddell
November 13, 2017
John, Your friends and Czech Republic wanted these picture of you to remain forever. They are wonderful friends you have!
Emily Smith
September 21, 2017
I keep thinking of you a lot, John. You cross my mind everyday. Small things remind me of you, like the sound of wheels of a skateboard down the road, or every time I walk home and pass the corner I use to walk you to after school. I miss you so much. I just cant get it out of my head that you should still be here. I really hope you knew how much I loved you. I'm so sorry I wasn't there. I wouldn't have waited for a month to text you if I knew that washing my car was the last thing we'd ever do together. I'm so sorry. This is the only way I know how to say this to you. I really loved you, John. I will do anything I can to fight for your cause and to see that the right thing is done. Please, rest well, my friend.
Robert Riddell
September 15, 2017
John,
I am still fighting to find the Cyber Bullies who did this to you. I am not going to give up until Justice is served. Grief is love and it will never go away. I love you with all my heart. And I always will. You are my buddy buddy and Your sister is my Pook Pook. I am fighting everyday for you. I will never give up.
Saybra Christley
September 1, 2017
Saybra Christley
September 1, 2017
Saybra Christley
September 1, 2017
8th grade I miss you
Kadance Matern
August 31, 2017
John was my world. We found each other at our darkest times and kept each other going. I texted him every thirty minutes to make sure he was okay. Call him every night to say goodnight, and I love you. We starting saying I love you with a capital I as something that we could have. I went to his house to or three times a week. I walked him to his classes. I took him out to McDonald's every time I got the chance. Kissed him on the nose every opportunity I got. He may not have been my first love, but he is the one that showed me what it should be. I will forever be grateful for his hugs, his words, his time, his giggle, our memories. and all the love we had. Fly high suga, I love you with a capital I
John posting by Saybra Khatt. She said it's her favorite picture of you!
Robert Allen Riddell
August 31, 2017
John, All of your friends are thinking about you and telling me about how wonderful you were and kind and always helped everyone. This is a picture that was posted on FB from a friend of yours Kaybra Khatt.
I am still investigating and getting the names of those that Cyber Bullied you. Every year on August 19th, I will make sure those people will never forget what they did to you this summer of 2017.
Brook Bullard
August 31, 2017
This is my favorite picture of John because his eyes really pop out.
Emily Smith
August 31, 2017
John was always there to help me whenever I needed him. He was a sweet, young boy who didn't deserve to die like this. My condolences go out to the friends or family. I wish I knew about this sooner, my dear friend. I don't know what happens when you die, but I really hope that you're resting well. I love you, John. I am so sorry this happened to you.
Kathy Schulz
August 31, 2017
Although we never met, Rest in Beautiful Peace John. Your father and sister have an amazing Guardian Angel now
Azeneth Vega
August 31, 2017
I'm so sorry for your loss. I was friends with John and he helped me through tough times and always made me smile. He was a great friend and never let people think less of themselves. I'm so sorry this happened and I hope justice will take course with those who bullied john. My heart, soul, and mind go out to John and your family.
leila Elmi-Stuart
August 29, 2017
So sad! so young so soon... !
my condolences!
Bev Lowry
August 29, 2017
I have been reading all about your son John riddell today and I must say how sorry I am that this has happened what a tragedy that has happened to such a very young and bright kid I read all the entries that his friends and family wrote about him and it just makes me so sad he sounds like he was a fun loving and very smart young man how this could happen really is terrible and my heart aches for you please know that you have an angel now to protect and look after each and every one of you and he will be there for you when the dark days seem to hard to bear just don't forget about him always keep him in your heart and talk about him often he will be there when you need him I am so sorry that you have lost your son ,brother and family member I never knew him but I feel I have by just reading about him in your tributes may he rest in peace please except my condolences and again I'm so sorry that such a young life was cut short please take care bev lowry
August 28, 2017
Condolences. Rest in peace.
Tami Lincoln
August 28, 2017
Dear Robert and Robyn,
We are so saddened for you loss. I know that pain you must be feeling and we are here for you. Anything you need we love you. Rob I know your Son loved you with all his heart. He told me this all the time and missed you terribly. And Robyn he loved you too so much. He said you were his best friend and the best sister anyone could ever ask for.
Tami
Robert ALLEN RIDDELL
August 28, 2017
John Robert Riddell Buddy Buddy
Born Dec 21, 2001 in Fort Lauderdale Florida,
Died Aug 19, 2017 1055 PM in West Jordan, Utah
John was a loving child that saw the good in everyone he met. He had a heart of gold and his smile lit up a room. The first ten years of his life was in Florida and then he split time in Florida, Utah and Czech Republic in the summers with his grandparents who absolutely adored him. He made friends wherever he went. He loved his X-box, Skateboard, Reeses peanut butter cups, and Star wars movies. His sister Robyn and him were best friends and doted on each like two peas in a pod. Johns best friends Kadence Matern and Kandon Carter were there to protect him when the cyber bullying began. They loved John very much.
There is an outpouring of support in this community to stop cyber bullying from the Governors office, state board of education to the students and teachers at West Jordan middle and high school plus the local community. They are putting a program together to stop cyber bullying and teach parents how to recognize the signs to prevent another tragedy like this one.
John is survived by his father Robert Allen Riddell, his Mother Gabriela Szkanderova, his sister Robyn, Aunt Lyn, Aunt Kim, Grandmother Faye, Uncle Jack, cousins Jaqueline and Jennah. His Uncle John, Aunt Jody and Jill and their families. Grandparents Jarmila and Jan Szkandera, Aunt Barbora and Uncle Mark, cousins Tomas, Micheal, Emily, Shelby and Naill.
Funeral Services were held at privately on Aug 24th with his immediate family and a public memorial was held on Aug 26th at Memorial Redwood Mortuary and Cemetery, 6500 south Redwood Road, West Jordan, Utah.
Donations can be made to www.stompoutbullying.org
Kathy Thompson
August 28, 2017
Rob and Robyn,
OM MY GOSH, This is just awful. I cannot imagine how you two must feel losing a son and a sibling. Rob you are a wonderful Father. And we all know how you tried everything to get custody of John.
Take care of Robyn and make her safe. I Love you both!
Steven Jenkins
August 28, 2017
Rob,
Our heart goes out to you during this time of loss. We know how much John meant to you and how hard you tried. It's just not right that this even happened at all. If you need anything please let us know. Steve and Mallory Jenkins
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John,
We love you with all our heart and soul. You are my "Buddy Buddy" and your sister Robyn's best friend in the world. Our lives will never be the same. We love you and miss you so much it physically and mentally hurts beyond belief.
John and Robyn - Best friends and soulmates forever.
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John Football with Dad as coach
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John Karate boards. He could break them with his feet or hands.
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John and Robyn
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John and Robyn
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
Robyn, Dad and John 2015 Bush Gardens halloween
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
Johns bedroom at his home in Tampa. He loved to check his height and wanted to be taller than me.
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John's boards he broker in Karate
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John's room with the world map and Eiffel Tower he put up himself
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John's Room and home (Tampa) All his Karate Belts on the wall
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John Little League
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John playing football, Dad was coach of the team.
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
"HAPPY HAPPY", Is was John would say for <br />Happy new year
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John and Dad. Love you so much John
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John and Dad
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John and Dad
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John and Dad
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John and his smile
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
Big Guy and Little guy.
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John in Little League
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John and Robyn. Best friends forever.
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John and his Dad. John's smile lights up the room
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John and Robyn
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John and his sister Robyn
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
Rob Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John,
We love you with all our heart and soul. You are my "Buddy Buddy" and your sister Robyn's best friend in the world. Our lives will never be the same. We love you and miss you so much it physically and mentally hurts beyond belief.
The cutest picture of John. His smile lit up a room even as a little boy
Robert Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John in Little league, Dad is coach
Robert Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
Father/Son Annual picture
Robert Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
Father/Son annual picture
Robert Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John's smile lit up every room. he is such a happy boy!
Robert Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John with his best friend Robyn ( His sister)
Robert Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
John at Wimbledon
Robert Allen Riddell
August 27, 2017
August 26, 2017
Prayers are said. May you find peace in your
Cara Bailey
August 25, 2017
I was John's 7th grade art teacher. When he was in 7th grade he and his mom came to Parent Teacher Conferences. He pulled his art projects out of his portfolio and his mom looked at one in particular and said with love and amazement "You made this, Johnny!?" His ears turned red, he smiled, and shrugged while she continued to express amazement at the beauty of his project. It was such a beautiful moment that I thought about it every time I saw him in the hall. This is nothing short of a tragedy.
Cameron Bellon
August 25, 2017
I love John. He was one of my best friends. I miss him like crazy, I wish all his other family the best of luck. He was always the nicest and funniest guy I know. have fun up in heaven bro, till we meet again.
Sean Elliott
August 25, 2017
I'll always love and miss you. I am so lost and so confused, I loved you like a brother and forever will. You will be extremely missed and forever on my mind. <3
Kandon Carter
August 25, 2017
I barely knew him, but honestly John was such a good classmate to me, it hurts knowing I won't see him anymore I honestly just loved having him around, my condolences to the riddell family ❤
Kaelynne Grant
August 25, 2017
John was one of the first friends I had when I moved to Kearns. He always made me smile. He was so nice and kind. I will miss him so much. ❤
Wendy Petrovich
August 25, 2017
He had the brightest, kindest smile I've ever seen. I knew him as a student at West Jordan Middle School. He was always sweet to me and eager to help. I am so very sorry for this great loss.
Kellie B
August 25, 2017
My daughter say's your son was a very rare breed of young men ~ Chivalrous and a True Young Gentleman..
Our Hearts are broken..
I am so sorry momma..
I wish I could hug you right now.. The circumstances are Terrible.. We experienced the same..
Please know your son was loved and will never be forgotten ~
Karey
August 25, 2017
We are deeply sorry for the los of your son John. My daughter swam with him and we gave him rides on occasion. He was always so polite and fun to talk to. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, his family, at this difficult time and we pray that his heart is at peace.
Lucy Amott
August 25, 2017
I remember this one day, before I moved, where me and john just spent the whole day by this church next to my house and we just talked and laughed and on that day I was genuinely happy. John made me forget all about the bad things in life and his smile was truly contagious. That memory is probably one of the best memories I have from my time in Utah and it's so hard to accept the fact that he's actually gone. Rip ❤
Erika Evans
August 24, 2017
John was absolutely amazing. He was kind to each and every person he interacted with, and he was such a great friend to me. I'm grateful I was able to know this happy, kind, strong, and outstanding young man. My heart is broken for the loss of such a wonderful person in your lives.
August 24, 2017
My daughter worked at the pool with your son. This summer she would always tell me how nice he was. His influence has reached farther than you may know. Love and prayers for your family.
Love,
Becky Evans
Maddi Page
August 24, 2017
John was one of my best friends and one of the greatest people I knew. He was always so great at making me and everyone around him smile. He was such a beautiful and loving guy. I will always remember him for how much love he expressed for people around him. He was kind to all and a person to be remembered through a lifetime. I'll miss him more than anything and I'll love him for forever. I'll miss you like crazy bud ❤
August 24, 2017
John was pretty close to my friend and made her so happy. I am so sad that they didn't end up being together, cause I know they would've been so happy. I hope John is free of his pain. He will be so missed. I wish that I had gotten to meet him. Rest in peace my friend.
Ezra Silva
August 24, 2017
John was one of our employees here at Kearns Oquirrh Park. He had an infectious smile and was a joy to work with. He will be missed.
Nic Martin
August 24, 2017
I knew john for a couple years, he had such a contagious smile. He was a great friend. He'll be missed by so many for so long.
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