Duane Ralph Ritsema

Ritsema, Duane Ralph
Portage Passed away on Saturday, December 14, 2013. Age 73. Duane was born in Kalamazoo on September 25, 1940, the son of the late Ralph and Bessie Margurite White Ritsema. He attended Western Michigan University before going to work for Sir Auto Parts. He then was employed by Campbell Auto, where he retired. After retirement he went back to work for Rowerdink Inc. He was a former member of Covenant Church of Richland. Duane enjoyed singing and working with automobiles. He loved to take care of his lawn and tried to have the nicest lawn in the neighborhood. He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years. Linda L. Thompson Ritsema of Portage; two daughters, Wendy Marie't Ritsema of Portage and Lisa Vance Ferguson of Portage; two grandchildren, Grace Arin Ferguson of Kalamazoo and Ryan David Ferguson of Portage; one sister, Marion Gray; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his son, David Ritsema; and his sister, Madilyn Pittman. A private graveside service was held at Central Portage Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 17, 2013 at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Portage Chapel, 411 E. Centre Avenue. Memorials may be made in Duane's name to the National Parkinson Foundation or the Gilmore Car Museum.