John Ridgway, age 88 of Baltimore, died on Memorial Day, May 29, 2017 with his family by his side. He was born March 15, 1929 to the late John & Mary Ridgway. John was the oldest of 20 children. He enlisted in the army and led his squad during the first year of the Korean War. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for combat. During his time in the service, he met his bride, Yoshiko Kato, in Tokyo, Japan, and they lived together in Baltimore for 65 years. John worked as a tool and die maker at a local canning factory for 36 years. John spent his later years lovingly caring for his wife. He is survived by his wife, Yoshiko, children George Ridgway, Dawn Czajkowski, and Jackie White, eight grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, 7 sisters, 3 brothers and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by two sons, John and Gregory Ridgway. A viewing will be held at the Gary L. Kaufman Funeral Home at Meadowridge Memorial Park on Sunday, June 4, from 3:00pm to 6:00pm. A memorial service will immediately follow at 6:00pm. Flowers are accepted. Memorial donations should be made to the Salvation Army.
