Date of death: 11/3/2025
Saint Meinrad Class: C 1973
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our brother, uncle, and friend, John Charles DeBakker. He passed away on November 3, 2025, while visiting his brother Bob in West Linn, Oregon. He was commonly known as “Johnny” or “Coach” and left an unforgettable mark on all those who knew him. John was born in Council Bluffs, Iowa, on June 29, 1947, to the late Robert and Ruth DeBakker. He is survived by Cathy DeBakker, Diana Ridlehoover (Jerry), Debra DeBakker, Bob DeBakker (Catherine), and Mary Ann Borum (Albert). He will be dearly missed by his nieces and nephews, Jonathan Godwin, Jennifer Godwin, Nicholas DeBakker (Lucia), Madeline Lea (Erik), Carsten DeBakker (Eleanor), Taylor Martin (Steven), and Bret Borum (Annie). He is also survived by his beloved Aunt Lorraine DeBakker in Norway, Michigan whom he visited frequently.
John attended Knoxville Catholic High School in Tennessee. After graduating, he received a scholarship to Northern Michigan University to play football. In 1972, he attended St. Meinrad Seminary in Indiana and received his bachelor’s degree in history and philosophy. He was elected to the board of student advisors and lettered in golf. He returned to Knoxville Catholic High School to teach history and was head coach for the “Fighting Irish” football team. During his summers, he worked as supervisor of the batting cages for the Los Angeles Dodgers. He attended the University of Tennessee and received his master’s degree in education. He worked as an administrative assistant and head resident of Gibbs Hall under Head Coach Johnny Majors. He returned to Catholic High School as the Athletic Director and Assistant Principal. John spent his final years teaching and coaching at York Institute in Jamestown, Tennessee. He touched the lives of many with his dedication, experience and humor.
John enjoyed a life of abundance. His interests included fishing, sports, hunting, golfing and spending time with his friends and family. He enjoyed traveling to historic locations across the United States and translated his experiences to the classroom. He was a people person and met many during his excursions. John was a loyal and devoted uncle, brother, friend and mentor.
In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. John will be placed near his parents at Oak Ridge Memorial Park. His inscription will read “Spread love wherever you go.”