Henry Ritsema Jr, age 95, of Grand Rapids, Michigan passed away on September 24, 2023. He lived a full and active life followed by a 2-month decline due to bladder cancer and is now present with his Lord and Savior in Heaven.

He is survived by his children, Randy and Mary Ellen Ritsema, Gwen Heys, Mike and Jane Ritsema, Curt and Darlene Ritsema, Ed and Kristin Ritsema, Cheryl and Tom Van De Griend; grandchildren, Megan and Aaron Pluger (Adalynn, Edison), Kelley and Isaac Grotenhuis (Fynn, Emery), Emily Ritsema, Molly and Aaron Kostrzewa, Joelle and Zac Curtis (Ocie), Brett Ritsema, Kyle and Rebecca Jordan Heys (Jubilee, Lazarus), Aaron and Callie Ritsema (Lennon, Koen), Rachel and Brian Dokter (Carson, Ella, Avery), Marcus and Jenna Ritsema (Winslet, Anderson, Warren), Jordan and Jodi Ritsema (Logan, Grace, Madison, Kane), Kalee and Nate Beecher, Jenna and Zack Hampel (Ezekiel, Ezra), Matthew Ritsema, Ashley and Kyle Peterson and Peyton, Camilla, Jesse, Colton Van De Griend; sister in law JoAnn Ritsema, many nephews and nieces, and special friend Arlene Egedy.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 63 years, Arlynne, son-in-law Glenn Heys, grandson Kevin Heys, and his and Arlynne's brothers, sisters and their spouses.

Henry was a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, Christ follower, and

plasterman. He was an artist with a hawk and trowel in his hands for 50 years and plastered or repaired half the houses in Grand Rapids. He was brought in as a specialist to work on the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum Oval Office, plastered the Land Pavilion at Disney's Epcot Center, and ended his career working at Blodgett Hospital. His life, extensive friendships, and character are a reflection of his Christian beliefs. Henry was a 70 year active member of Seymour CRC. He was a hard worker, committed servant, and unapologetic Christian as reflected on his license plate "1 JOHN 3". Henry served his Lord by volunteering at Raybrook, driving people to events, giving 20 gallons of blood, and befriending everyone. He loved his country serving 5 years in the Naval Reserves. Henry demonstrated love by actively participating in life with unwavering commitment and loyalty.

The family wishes to thank the 3rd-floor nursing staff and Faith Hospice at Raybrook Manor for

their loving care. Funeral services will be held Friday, September 29, 2023 at 2:00 PM at Raybrook Manor Chapel, 2121 Raybrook St. SE, Rev. Henry Admiraal officiating. Visitation will be held Thursday, Sept. 28, 5:00-7:00 PM at Zaagman Memorial Chapel, 2800 Burton St. SE, and Friday, one hour prior to the service from 1:00 to 2:00 PM at Raybrook. Memorial contributions may be given to the Holland Home Resident Assistance Fund or Seymour CRC Mission Fund.