John P. "Jack" Decker

John P. Decker (Jack) of Sussex, NJ and Saranac Lake, NY, born October 25, 1935 passed away in his home on Friday, August 28, 2026 after a long and happy life. He is survived by his wife, Suzanne M. Milliron; daughter Joanne Hesseltine (Timothy) and son John Thomas Decker (Brenda); grandchildren Samuel Hesseltine (Justine), Alexandra Hesseltine (Aimee), and Taylor Hesseltine; and great-grandchildren Oliver, Charles, and Beatrice Hesseltine. Jack is also survived by Suzanne’s daughters Lisa Privitera (Richard Pyle), Kristen Barrett, and Kimberly Privitera, along with their children Cara Pyle, Sofia Barrett, Owen Pyle, Isabella Barrett, Jacob Barrett, and Gabriella Platt.

Jack recalled many fond memories of his childhood, growing up and working on his family’s dairy farm in Sussex, NJ, which he later operated as a “Cut and Choose” Christmas Tree Farm. He graduated from Rider University with a BA in Business and was a Veteran of the US Army.

A “Renaissance Man” who was largely self-taught, Jack was an entrepreneur who had a knack for civil and mechanical engineering. His business ventures included feed manufacturing in Randolph NY; Big D Building Supply, Swift Supply & Rental, Blue Moon Café, and Beechwood Development for private homes in Saranac Lake; and Lake Erie waterfront townhouse development in Buffalo, NY. His road to success was always proudly under construction.

In addition to his work, Jack immensely enjoyed sailing, traveling, living in the Adirondacks, discussing politics, and creating countless gourmet meals for family and friends.

Calling hours will take place on Monday, September 7, 2026 from 4:00 -6:00 pm at Fortune-Keough Funeral Home, 20 Church Street, Saranac Lake. A memorial service will immediately follow at 6:00 Pm at the funeral home with Rev. Eric Olsen Officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to High Peaks Hospice in care of the funeral home. Family and friends can also share their condolences and memories at fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.