Joan DeRidder, age 86 a longtime Portage resident passed away Wednesday, January 16, 2019.  She was born on March 30, 1932 in Chicago, Illinois to the late Earl and Fern McGinley.  Joan was a member of the Jehovah's Witnesses Kingdom Hall of Chesterton.  Joan was a bible teacher for many years.  Joan loved cooking.

She is survived by one daughter, Patricia (Kenneth) Escott , Sr.; one grandson, Kenneth Escott Jr.; and nieces and nephews.

Joan was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Glenn DeRidder, one sister, Patricia Mizgate; and one brother, Roy Auerbach.

Memorial services are Sunday, January 27, 2019 at 4 p.m. at The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 930 North State Road 149, Valparaiso, IN, 46385 with Peter Frick officiating.  Memorial visitation will be just prior to the service from 3 p.m. until 4 p.m..   Cremation services provided by Rees Funeral Home, Hobart Chapel.  (219) 942-2109 or online at www.Reesfuneralhomes.com .