John Derites, former Roseland councilman, dies at 73

Former Roseland councilman John Derites died on April 2.  He was 73.

Derites was elected to the borough council in 1994 and re-elected in 1997, 2000 and 2003.

“Councilman John Derites was the epitome of class,” said mayor James Spango. “He was a true gentleman, a calm and strong voice of reason, in addition to being a devoted husband, Dad and grandfather.  In my time as Mayor, John became a trusted confidant. On behalf of all Roseland residents I extend our condolences to Roseann Derites and their entire family.  John Derites’ passing is a terrible loss to our entire Roseland community.”

Derites ran for council in 2018 on a ticket headed by former mayor Michael Pacio.  He scored an off-the-line victory in the Republican primary and came within 134 votes of beating Democrat Eileen Fishman in the general election.

He owned Mid-State Press, a Roseland-based printing company.

Derites is survived by his wife, Roseanne, two daughters and five grandchildren.