Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

John Ralph VanDerwerker, 84, passed away on February 16, 2025, in Fort Washington, Maryland.

Born on October 14, 1940, in Summit, New Jersey, John grew up with a love for life that carried through every stage. He grew up in Silver Spring, MD attending Montgomery Blair High School. He continued his education with a degree in history at the University of Maryland, College Park, after which he enlisted in the Naval Reserves. While playing a lot of golf, John was encouraged by a friend to study for his real estate license. With only one third of the book read, he passed and quickly started selling houses. This was such a successful career choice, that he was known as Mr. Wonderworker. He became a broker and opened his own branch of Century 21 in 1979. He was a mentor to many and sold real estate for over 50 years.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, John could always be found watching a game. Whether cheering for the Maryland Terrapins, the Redskins, the Orioles, or watching his grandsons play soccer and baseball, he remained an eternal optimist—both in sports and in life. His unwavering positivity was one of his defining traits; he always found the bright side of any situation.

John cherished time spent with family and friends. He loved relaxing with a cold beer in hand and making memories in Long Beach Island, NJ. His warmth and kindness made him loved by many and liked by all who had the pleasure of meeting him.

John was a devoted and loving husband to Dianna and a proud parent to four daughters: Delani Cashion, Dewi Cashion, Shanna VanDerwerker (Justin), and Ashley Simmons (Sean). He is survived by 2 sisters, Virginia Pace, and Valerie Mudge, 3 nieces, 2 nephews, 4 granddaughters, Tessa, Ciara, Kaia, Erin, and three grandsons, Bodhi, Gavin, and Caleb.

John’s legacy is one of love, optimism, and deep connections with those around them. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, family requests memorial contributions be sent to the <a href="https://give.michaeljfox.org/give/421686/#!/donation/checkout">Michael J. Fox Parkinson's Foundation</a>.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025 as an open house starting at noon at the VanDerwerker Residence.


John Ralph VanDerwerker

John Ralph VanDerwerker

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