Fly Creek, NY - Fly Creek - John William Eldridge passed away peacefully at home at the age of 88 on January 4,

2026, with his loving wife of 48 years, Dianne (Beaver), by his side. He is survived by his wife, 7 children, 18 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild. He shares four children with Dianne: Claire (Robert) Wessels, Benjamin (Emma), Maggie (Marco) Molina, and David (Johanna); and twelve grandchildren: Cooper, Carter, Camden, Cohen, Ryleigh, Molly, Penelope, Luca, Maya, Naomi, Vivienne, and Wilhelmina. He has three children from his first marriage to Patricia (Bentley): Bill (Carol), Mark, and Meg (Cris) Peterson; six grandchildren (Ian, Jessica, Jared, Sam, Ben, Natalie); and one great-grandchild (Addison). John is also survived by his brothers, David (Ann) and Tom (Bonnie). John is predeceased by his parents, William Charles and Margaret Eldridge.

Born on December 6, 1937, in Cooperstown, NY, John graduated from Cooperstown Central School in 1955. He earned a B.S. in Chemistry, Physics and Math from SUNY Oneonta in 1962 and an M.S. in Chemistry from Washington University in 1965. John

taught chemistry, physics, and computer science at Burnt Hills Ballston Lake High School for 40 years (1962-2002) and served as Science Department Chair. He was offered a PhD fellowship at Harvard University but declined and returned to pursue his

love of teaching at BH-BL. John also coached track & field and cross country. John inspired countless students to pursue careers in science, while challenging all his students to think critically.

John was a man of the outdoors, with a passion for farming, gardening and golf. He was well known for growing amazing vegetables. His garden at Bybrook Farm was the envy of all. John had many interests, but none more so than his closest friendships. John was a dear friend to many, creating smiles and laughs wherever he went and building a community "Where Everybody Knows Your Name".

A Celebration of Life is planned for April 11, 2026, in Fly Creek, NY. In lieu of flowers,

please consider donating to the Fly Creek Volunteer Fire Company, where John served as Commissioner (P.O. Box 218 Fly Creek, NY 13337). And in John's memory as an educator, please give your time to the young scholars in your life.