James Joseph Derezinski

James "Jimmy" Joseph Derezinski, a cherished husband, father, veteran, educator, and dedicated public servant, passed away peacefully at his home on June 30, 2026, at the age of 79.

Born on June 15, 1947, in Wolf Lake, Michigan, to Clement and Leone (Brusky) Derezinski, Jimmy's life was a testament to his unwavering commitment to his family, community, and country.

A proud U.S. Army veteran who served honorably in Vietnam, Jimmy was awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart for his courage and sacrifice. His resilience defined him throughout his life as he overcame numerous physical challenges, earning the affectionate nickname "the Six Million Dollar Man" from his family. His military service instilled a quiet strength, deep humility, and a lifelong bond with his fellow veterans through the Clement Derezinski VFW Post.

On December 16, 1972-the same day he graduated from college-Jimmy married the love of his life, Margaret Ann Vaillancourt, in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. Their enduring partnership became the foundation of a large, loving family.

Known to nearly everyone as "Jimmy D," he had a warm, fun-loving spirit and never met a stranger. His home was a gathering place, famous for weekly volleyball games and unforgettable Fourth of July celebrations. He found joy in hockey, motorcycles, woodworking, and tending to his immaculate yard. He especially loved being on the water, where his double-decker pontoon was always known as the "fun boat." With a twinkle in his eye and an endless supply of jokes, he delighted in making people laugh and sharing stories.

Jimmy's passion for education and public service shaped an extraordinary career. He began as a fifth-grade teacher at Oakridge School, where his engaging teaching style and memorable field trips left a lasting impression on generations of students. He later served as the school's Business Manager, retiring after years of dedicated service. His commitment to his community also led him to serve as Egleston Township Clerk, Constable, and a respected Muskegon County Commissioner. He was a proud graduate of Central Michigan University, earning both a bachelor's degree in Finance and a master's degree as an Education Specialist.

Jimmy is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Margaret; his daughters, Sarah (Dave) Crowder, Emily (Jeremy) Redenius, Rachel (Franco) Johnson, and Maria (Jason) Helsen; his cherished grandchildren, Molly and Nicholas Crowder, Jonah and Sam Redenius, Ellis (Connor) Glassford, Mitchell and Max Johnson, and Vivian, Daniel, and Andrew Helsen; and his treasured great-grandsons, Theo and Jude Glassford.

He is also survived by his siblings, Mary (Tom) Hutton, Tony (Katy) Derezinski, Nancy (Larry) Neumann, Bernadette Bedwell, Dorothy (David) Wilt, Julia (Joe) Williams, and Mike DeFors. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clement and Leone Derezinski; his brother, Daniel Derezinski; his sister, Clementia DeFors; and his brother-in-law, Steve Bedwell.

A celebration of Jimmy's life will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at the Derezinski VFW Hall. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by a service at 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jimmy's memory to the Derezinski VFW or Oakridge Schools.

Jimmy's legacy lives on through the family he loved, the students he inspired, the community he faithfully served, and the countless friends whose lives were brighter because they knew him. His kindness, humor, generosity, and unwavering love for others will be deeply missed and forever remembered.