John Michael Deptuch

John Michael Deptuch, age 78, of Bellingham, Washington, passed away at Christian Health Care Center in Lynden, WA, on Monday, June 2, 2025.

He was born in Manhattan, New York, in 1947 to Helen M. Applegate and John M. Deptuch, John was one of six siblings: Wally, Walter, Russell, Donald, and Dorene. Meaningful interactions with his family enriched his formative years, fostering cherished relationships and experiences that helped shape his character. Throughout his life, John remained dedicated to the values instilled in him during his upbringing, and he will be fondly remembered by all who knew him. His siblings will always remember all the Parades they participated in and fun family outings.

John completed his education at P.S. 61 and P.S. 60, followed by studies in Maritime Food Trade. Throughout his career, he gained diverse experience, including working on his late wife's parents' dairy farm and serving in the custodial and maintenance department at NASA.

John was preceded in death by his wife, Belle Deptuch; his parents, John and Helen Deptuch; and his siblings Wally, Walter, and Donald. He is survived by his daughter, Amber, and her husband, Adam Carlson; his son, John (Mandy); his grandchildren, Skyler and Brody; and his daughter, Danielle. He is also survived by his brother, Russell (Janice); his sister, Dorene (Michael); as well as several nieces and nephews, including Russ Deptuch and April Atwood.

John met the love of his life, Belle, in New York. John first met his wife on her parents’ dairy farm. Where the true love story of “I fell in love with the farmer's daughter” And their enduring love story began. Later, in 1979, John and Belle vacationed in Kemah, where they met their longtime friend Michael. The couple initially planned a two-week vacation to Kemah, Texas, but ultimately resided there for sixteen years. During this period, they were married in January 1981 in Houston, Texas. John and Belle remained happily married for 28 years. They were excited to start their new lives together and could not wait to start a family. They had three beautiful children: John, Danielle, and Amber, and their children meant the world to them. Eventually, their family moved to Ferndale, Washington, in 1997, which they considered home.

Every moment spent with them was deeply valued. John demonstrated profound dedication to his family, expressing immense pride in his children and their accomplishments. John finds fulfillment in his role as a grandparent and consistently offers love and support to Skyler and Brody. He valued the time invested in his family, viewing the nurturing of their growth as a paramount responsibility. While John held his role as a father in high regard, he placed particular emphasis on his role as a grandparent to Skyler and Brody, consistently providing them with guidance and support. Amber recalled one occasion when our family visited my brother John in Oregon, and how enthusiastic Skyler was to see his grandparents. One memorable instance was watching Skyler and his grandfather go on a children’s train ride.

Family and friends were central to John's life. He maintained a devoted partnership with his wife, Belle, beginning each day together over coffee and a daily to-do list. John was esteemed for his unwavering dedication to model trains, a passion that significantly shaped his life. His commitment was reflected in an extensive collection, meticulously curated in his designated "train room," and his active participation in Lynden exhibitions alongside family members. Amber, his daughter, recalls their shared appreciation for these events and the remarkable collection he built. John’s interest in model trains was widely recognized within his community, bringing him sustained joy. A lifelong New Yorker, John embodied the distinctive spirit of his hometown in every interaction. He was an avid supporter of the New York Yankees, enjoying baseball exclusively when his team played, especially with his daughter Amber. John had a deep affinity for country music, particularly Johnny Cash. John also enjoyed outdoor adventures and held a genuine respect for Native American art and culture.

John was consistently noted for his compassion, fairness, and principled approach to life. Those who knew him best remember him as a reliable friend, a caring brother, a devoted father, and a loving husband. John extended his paternal influence beyond his immediate family, embracing his children’s friends and providing them with familial support. His legacy is defined by the positive influence he had on others, his commitment to fairness, and his warm, respectful engagement with all.

John’s profound influence on his family and community continues to resonate, serving as a source of inspiration for those whose lives he touched. While his absence is deeply felt, his core values and compassionate nature are perpetually reflected in the cherished memories he cultivated. John is remembered for his empathy and kindness, qualities that distinguished him in both his personal and professional spheres. His enduring impact is evident in the lives of those who knew him, as he was esteemed as a friend, brother, father, and husband. John’s commitment to justice, healing, and ethical principles was exemplary. He fostered relationships built on warmth and integrity, leaving a lasting legacy through his unique perspective. His contributions as a parent, grandparent, and sibling are highly regarded, and his influence is recognized by his associates. His consistent demonstration of empathy and ethical conduct continues to positively impact his community. Details regarding a memorial service for John will be announced shortly.