Frederick Ritsema

Frederick Ritsema aged 96 of Grand Rapids passed away Sunday, December 4, 2011. He was preceded in death by his wife Edna and sister Vi and brother-in-law Bill. Fred will be lovingly remembered by his children; Rick (Debbie), Denise, Roger (Johanna) seven grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, brothers; John, Clarence (JoAnn), Henry (Arlyn), Larry (Pearl) sister Chris (Gene) and many nieces and nephews. He served with the First Marines on Guadalcanal, New Britain and Pelilleu during WWII. Immediately on discharge from the service he hitchhiked to Australia in 1945 to marry his fiancée Edna May Shute. His final prayer: “Jesus, Heavenly Father, bring us together in heaven once more, unending. Thank you for all you have done. I have truly been blessed.” A Memorial Service will be held 1:00 PM Saturday December 10, 2011 at Raybrook Manor Chapel 2121 Raybrook SE. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Raybrook Benevolence Fund at Raybrook Manor 2121 Raybrook SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546.