DeRue, Richard P. (Dick)

Fairport/Penfield: April 25, 2017.

Predeceased  by  his  parents, Phillip & Lois; brother, Gary; and wife, Ann DeRue. Richard is survived by his brother, Ken DeRue; sons, Brian (Jane), David (Julie) and Christian (Amanda) DeRue; six grandchildren, Jacob, Connor, Nathan,  Devon,  Riley  &  Tyler DeRue who will dearly miss their beloved Grandpa, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends and his loyal dog, Max.

Friends may call Thursday, May 4th, 4:00-7:00pm at the Richard H. Keenan Funeral Home, Egypt location, 7501 Pittsford Palmyra Rd., Fairport, with a Memorial Service immediately following. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery, Penfield, Friday, May 5th at 10am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Monroe County Humane Society, or to the Perinton VFW  Post  8495  http://www.vfw8495.com/ .

Dick was born on June 27, 1941 in Rochester, NY to Phillip and Lois DeRue.  The oldest of three boys (brothers Ken and Gary), the family resided in the home which would eventually become the office for DeRue Construction.  Dick attended Fairport schools and played football for Fairport High.  After graduating in 1959, Dick went to work for the family construction business and married first wife, Kathy.  On December 4, 1963, Dick enlisted in the National Guard of New York.  Dick was enlisted for 6 years with the highest grade of Sargeant being attained.  On December 3, 1969, Dick was Honorably Discharged from the New York National Guard.

 

In December 1970, Dick’s first son, Brian, was born.  Three years later, another son, David, was born.  In the 1970’s Dick took over DeRue Construction from his father and the company grew.  Dick and Kathy parted ways in the late 1970’s but remained friends and set an example to all as to how to work together for the benefit of Brian and David which continued on to his death, attending all events together for their sons, grandchildren etc… Due to this partnership, Dick remained very involved with his sons.  After some time as a confirmed bachelor, Dick then became involved in a relationship with Ann, whom he married in the early 1980’s.  One son, Christian, was born in 1985. Dick and Ann enjoyed a life full of adventure which included cruises to many unique locations.  Dick was also blessed with grandchildren starting with Jacob (1998), Connor (2001, Nathan (2001), Devon (2003), Riley (2004) and Tyler (2006).

 

In addition to the love that Dick had for his family, Dick also perhaps most enjoyed spending time at his cottage on Conesus Lake.  The best day for Dick would be to be surrounded by his family, watching the grandchildren have fun and enjoying the view of Conesus.  Dick truly knew the beauty of nature, demonstrated by his love of  the lake and all animals, especially his dog, Max.

 

We will miss Dick.  His dry, witty humor.  His steadfast political views, his generosity to all and most of all his love of being Grandpa…