Maurice ‘Jim’ Derby

Born in Bloomingdale on Jan. 11, 1932, he was the son of Duke and Laura (Delcore) Derby.

Jim was a lifelong resident of Bloomingdale and graduated from Saranac Lake High School. He worked in heavy construction for 10 years and later worked as a caretaker for the old Millbanks property in St. Regis Falls for over 30 years until his retirement. Jim was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving during the Korean War from 1952 to 1954. Being an avid outdoorsman, he was a member of the East Branch Hunting Club for many years.

Jim truly loved his faithful companions, his dogs (and he could name them all). He enjoyed the wildlife he would encounter in the woods and wandering in his backyard. He enjoyed the beauty of the Adirondacks and especially cherished the scenic rides with dear friends, which always ended with his favorite views from the Norman Ridge Road.

Jim is survived by one son, Duke, of Portland, Oregon. He is also survived by family members: nephews John Derby of Lake Clear, Brian Derby of California, Greg Derby of Lake Tahoe and Stephen Derby of California; and nieces Mary Kay Benham of Saranac Lake, Marissa Holm of California and Lori El Hakim of Massachusetts.

Jim was predeceased by his parents; sisters Rita Derby and Marie Kennedy; his brothers Duke, Leo, George and John; and a nephew, Dale Derby.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral home in Saranac Lake. There will be no calling hours. A graveside ceremony, with military honors, will take place in the spring at the St. Paul’s Cemetery in Bloomingdale at the convenience of the family.

Family and friends wishing to remember Maurice “Jim” Derby can send memorial contributions in his memory to the Tri Lakes Humane Society in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home, 20 Church St., Saranac Lake, NY 12983. Family and friends can also share their memories and sign the online guestbook at www.fortunekeoughfuneralhome.com.