John Dekker Obituary
He was raised in Park Forest with his older sister Linda Dekker and attended Rich East High School. As a teenager he loved spending time in Ludington, Michigan exploring sand dunes, boating, fishing, and writing.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his three children Kyle Dekker (Amy) their son Malcolm; Kristen Dekker-Szostak (Danny) their children, Cole, Stone, Fantasy, Blaize and Gavin; Katrina Brennan (Ian) their children Eleanor and Evan; Mother-in-Law, Fern Baker his dog Molly and four great-granddaughters, Rayn, River, Ren, Romy; Nephew, Bryn Dekker and one on the way! He loved his family, they meant the whole world to him!
In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his sister, adoptive mother, Lura Jean Dekker; father-in-law, Dave Baker, and sister-in-law, Martha Stiles .
Jack loved playing golf, cooking for others, and spending time with his loved ones. Standing 6'6" tall Jack was known as a "Gentle Giant" making his home welcome to anyone who needed a hot meal or place to crash. He filled any room he was in with love, kindness, and laughter. He loved telling stories, jokes, and a good pun.
He was a faithful member of West Salem Trinity Church for 26 years, he was active in his men's group, he also was a Sunday school teacher and loved every moment! Jack led a life of faith and kindness, and shared his light everywhere he was!
He began working at ARDL as an Environmental Chemist in 1977, and worked there up until his passing. He loved his work family very much, and he will be missed at the lab everyday. Jack was very dear to them.
A celebration of life will take place on April 4th, 2026 at West Salem Trinity Church, 4212 Broadway St. Mt. Vernon, Illinois 62864 at 11am
In lieu of flowers, PLEASE donate blood or consider a donation to Blood Cancer United in honor of Jack Dekker.
http://bloodcancerunited.org Call Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit hugheyfh.com for further information.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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1314 Main Street P.O. Box 721, Mount Vernon, IL 62864
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