Celebrating the remarkable life of a twelfth-generation resident, beloved funeral director, and passionate golfer
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood, NJ—The community of Ridgewood is mourning the loss of a true pillar, Dirk Van Emburgh, who passed away peacefully on September 9, 2025, at the age of 81. A proud twelfth-generation resident of the village, Dirk was known for his vibrant personality, his deep commitment to service, and the unwavering joy he brought to everyone he met.
A Life of Service and Connection
Born in Hackensack, Dirk’s roots in Ridgewood ran deep. After graduating from Ridgewood High School in 1962 and Baldwin Wallace College, he dedicated his life to a career of service. As President and CEO of C.C. Van Emburgh Funeral Home, he carried on a family legacy that spans more than 130 years, honoring his community with compassion and care since 1971. His professional dedication extended beyond the family business, as he served as a past president of the Bergen County Funeral Directors’ Association.
Beyond his professional life, Dirk had an incredible ability to connect with people. His larger-than-life personality and infectious laughter made him a memorable presence, whether he was at home in Ridgewood or traveling the world.
A Passion for the Game: Honoring a Golfer’s Legacy
Dirk was a lifelong and avid golfer, a passion that intertwined with his life’s work. A member of the Ridgewood Country Club since 1971, he shared his love for the game as a tournament official for the New Jersey State Golf Association and by chairing its state convention for two decades. Having played over 600 golf courses around the globe, he found immense joy in sharing stories of his golf trips to Scotland and Ireland with friends and family.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the New Jersey Golf Caddie Scholarship Foundation, a fitting tribute to his lifelong love of the sport and his commitment to helping future generations.
Dirk is survived by his loving wife, Laura, his children, Beth, Dirk Jr., and Peter, and his cherished grandchildren. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of his family and the community, but his memory—defined by his warmth, laughter, and the way he made every gathering feel like a celebration—will live on.
links below:
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the New Jersey Golf Caddie Scholarship Foundation, honoring Dirk’s lifelong love of the game and his commitment to supporting future generations.
Dirk’s funeral service will be livestreamed on the Old Paramus Church’s YouTube Page for those who cannot attend.
To send a flower arrangement in memory of Dirk Van Emburgh, please click here to visit our sympathy store.
To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Dirk Van Emburgh, please click here to visit our sympathy store.
Tell your story #TheRidgewoodblog , #Indpendentnews, #information, #advertise, #guestpost, #affiliatemarketing,#NorthJersey, #NJ , #News, #localnews, #bergencounty, #sponsoredpost, #SponsoredContent, #contentplacement , #linkplacement, Email: Onlyonesmallvoice@gmail.com
81 used to sound SO OLD… now, not so much.