John Dean DeVries

1931 - 2022

John Dean DeVries passed away peacefully on Sept. 13, 2022, at Caretel Inns in St. Joseph.

He was born on March 19, 1931, to John and Hattie DeVries, in St. Joseph.

His early years were spent on the DeVries fruit farm with his sister, Delores, and his two brothers: Bob and Jim.

Dad attended Stewart Elementary School and St. Joseph High School, where he first met the love of his life, Barbara (Robbie) Ann Reinking, then went on to receive his bachelor's degree in business administration from Western Michigan University.

After serving in the Korean War, he returned to join his dad and brothers in running the John DeVries Insurance Agency, where he was known for his warm, personal service and his high level of integrity. It was also at this time that he re-met and married his beautiful bride, Robbie, with whom he has enjoyed the blessings of life for the past almost 68 years.

In the mid-1980s, Dad established Apple Insurance Agency, in partnership with his former office assistant, Betty Wisneski, and worked there until his retirement in the late 1990s.

Dad loved life and was captivated by the simple beauty of the world around him. He delighted in watching the changing moods of Lake Michigan, the shapes of the clouds, and the sunsets over the lake. He enjoyed racing sailboats, golfing, and spending time with his family. He was known for his compassion to others, his never-ending charity, and his love for people.

Dad was preceded in death by his parents; siblings; and his son, John.

He is survived by his wife, Robbie; his son, Rick; his daughters-in-law: Dyana, and Cheri; his eight grandchildren and their spouses; and 16 great-grandchildren.

Dad's favorite saying was, "It will all work out." It was a mantra that comforted and assured all of his posterity, and was a constant reminder that, come what may in life, somehow with faith in God and a bit of hard work, things will always work out.

A public viewing will be Saturday, Sept. 24, at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph, at 9 a.m., followed by a service at 10 a.m. and a reception at 11 a.m. Burial will take place at 12:15 p.m. with military honors in Riverview Cemetery.

Donations, in lieu of flowers, may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or to the Humane Society – Southwestern Michigan Yeager Family Pet Shelter.

Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.