Derek A. St John

Derek Anthony St John, 90, of West Hurley, NY, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 9, 2024 at his home on Hospice with his loving wife of 63 years, Sheila, at his side. Derek was born in London, England on March 26, 1934, the son of the late Harold St John and Elizabeth Stewart. He emigrated to Toronto, Canada in 1957 where he met Sheila M. Robinson (also from London) and they married, September 30, 1960. 

Derek had many successful careers during his time in London, Toronto, and NYC in 1962. He moved to his much-loved spot Ulster County Hudson Valley in 1968. Derek worked in photography, advertising, fashion, commercial, IBM and Apple Antiques. From 1987-2001 he worked for the Ulster County Sheriff Civil Department. 

Derek was proud to be an American and loved his chosen country of USA. He enjoyed many lifetime hobbies – house restorations, antique collecting, Hudson Valley history, sailing and fishing. He was most proud to be able to “pay back for the Burning of Kingston by the British” by restoring in 1976-1978 the Dr. Luke Kiersted house at 95 John St with the support of Mayor Koenig. He was also apart of Friends of Historic Kingston and Landmarks Commission. 

Life was an adventure and he enjoyed a challenge. He had many friends and their families became his family. He loved engaging with people, sharing life stories with a smile and funny witty remarks.

Derek is survived by his only relative, wife Sheila.

Arrangements entrusted to Keyser Funeral & Cremation Service, Inc., 326 Albany Avenue, Kingston, NY 12401, where family and friends visit on Saturday, May 4, 2024 from 2pm to 5pm. There will be a time of sharing starting at 4pm. 

A tribute for Derek may be found at www.KeyserFuneralService.com, where you may leave memories and expressions of sympathy for his family. For those who wish, contributions in Derek’s memory may be made to Tunnel to Towers or a charity of your choice.