John Alphonse Ringeisen

John Alphonse Ringeisen, age 90 of St. Clair Shores, died Sunday, August 2, 2020 at Ascension St. John Hospital & Medical Center in Detroit. Born in Detroit on October 23, 1929, John was the son of the late Alphonse and the late Theresa (nee: Amend) Ringeisen.

Having just witnessed the country he loved coming out of a world war, John was a mere 17 years old when he walked into the recruiters office in downtown Detroit and signed on the dotted line to become part of our nation’s armed forces. So it is, with thanks and praise from a grateful nation, that we pay homage to John for his service to our country as a sailor in the U.S. Navy. Serving just under 5 years, from November 1946 to September 1951, John spent just shy of 4 years of that time at sea aboard the U.S.S. Tawakoni. Attaining the rank of EN3 (Engineman 3rd Class), the Navy decided to put John’s prior experience and strengths in diesel mechanics to work to keep the ship running like a top. For his willingness to stand in harm’s way on America’s behalf, and for his bravery and valor in the face of war, we extend our posthumous gratitude to John for stepping up to join his fellow patriots as they made America proud.

Though John held down a couple of other lines of work both before and after the major scope of his career choice, it was the years he spent as a Milkman with the folks at Twin Pines Dairy that brought him immense pride and satisfaction in a job well done. It was so much more than merely bringing dairy products to each customer’s home, it was the true and meaningful friendships he made in the process. John knew that the job was special when his customers became “family” as his routes afforded him the opportunity of seeing them all on a regular basis. He loved his job, loved his customer’s, and served the iconic dairy provider with the utmost in dedication.

When he wasn’t running his milk routes, you would have often found John working out in his yard keeping the homestead up to snuff. His yard was always immaculate, and a wonderful picture for his neighbors to partake as well. When it came to his yard, appearances were everything,…and there was never a question of the passion he poured into maintaining its beauty.

When it came time for a little fun and entertainment, that’s when John’s sporting side would awaken,…especially when it involved his precious cats, the Tigers and Lions. He was always up for a little “Sports in the D,”…and sometimes it was more than a little fun. Joining with his other friends and sports enthusiasts, John was loyal through both the good and the bad. I believe that is the definition of “devotion,” right?

Speaking of devoted, John had another pastime that meant the world to him,…sharing in all of those long & cherished walks he enjoyed with his bride, Katherine. It didn’t really matter where they were walking, just that they were going there together. John & Katherine knew that some of life’s most precious moments don’t have to cost a cent, yet are treasures beyond description. They enjoyed each other’s company, and even managed to get a little exercise along the way. And while they were walking, they often had the wonderful opportunity of visiting with their neighbors who were their other treasures in life.

A loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, John leaves behind a wonderful legacy of a man who enjoyed the simple things in life and sought to touch humanity in his own unique manner. Though his family was small in number, it was certainly mighty in love because of the example he set. He will be missed immensely and loved eternally.  

John was the beloved husband of Katherine (nee: Dambroseo) Ringeisen. Dear father of Debbie (Dean) Purgatori and Donna (Al) Marino. Loving grandfather of Gina (Gregg) Kent, Dominic, Annemarie (Vince) Lepore, Sam, and Kristen (Brandon) Zupko. John is also survived by 6 great-grandchildren. Brother of Mary Thibodeau.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Rd. at Common (12 ½ Mile Rd.) in Warren, Michigan.

Please share memories of John at his guest book below.