Herbert Jay Ritsema, age 91, entered his heavenly home on June 2, 2026.

Born on July 6, 1934, to Fred and Nellie (Diekman) Ritsema, Herb was the fourth of eight children. While the dates marking his birth and death tell part of his story, it was the remarkable years between them that truly defined his life—a life characterized by faith, family, hard work, generosity, and service to others.

Herb attended Grand Rapids Christian School through the ninth grade before leaving school to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams. Even as a young man, he possessed an uncommon work ethic, determination, and vision. Though his formal education ended after the ninth grade, he remained a lifelong learner whose wisdom was shaped by hard work, experience, faith, and an endless curiosity about the world around him. He later served his country in the United States Navy, joining in 1953.

On August 10, 1954, Herb married Joan Siersma. Together they shared 66 years of marriage and built a loving family centered on faith, hard work, and love. Following Joan's passing, Herb was blessed to find companionship once again when he married Janice Vander Zwaag on June 20, 2021. Their years together were filled with friendship, faith, and gratitude for God's many blessings.

Herb and Joan shared a love for adventure, family, and time on the water. Through the years, countless memories were made boating, water skiing, and enjoying Michigan's lakes with family and friends. Whether teaching others to ski, spending a summer day on the boat, or gathering loved ones at the water's edge, some of Herb's happiest moments were spent creating memories with those he loved most. The water remained a special place where family, laughter, and togetherness naturally came together.

In 1955, at just 21 years old, Herb founded The Herb Ritsema Company. Through perseverance, integrity, and a gift for building relationships, he grew the business into a respected company that continues to serve others more than 70 years later. He later retired from Ritsema Associates, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, innovation, and hard work.

Above all else, Herb treasured his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. He delighted in gathering with those he loved and took genuine interest in the lives of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Whether celebrating milestones, sharing stories, offering encouragement, or simply spending time together, Herb made his family feel loved and valued. His family was one of God's greatest blessings in his life.

A man of deep and abiding Christian faith, Herb devoted himself to studying God's Word through numerous Bible studies and church involvement throughout his life. His faith was not merely something he believed—it was something he lived. He volunteered with Crossroads Prison Ministries, sharing hope, encouragement, and the love of Christ with those seeking a new path. He was also known for his generous and philanthropic spirit, quietly supporting individuals, ministries, and causes that strengthened his community.

Herb believed in living life with purpose and energy. A passionate runner, he was a member of the Grand Rapids Track Club and played a role in establishing the Old Kent River Bank Run in 1978. He inspired and encouraged countless runners through his enthusiasm and example. When running was no longer possible, he turned to cycling, continuing to challenge himself by riding the number of miles equal to his age each year until he was 81.

In his quieter moments, Herb enjoyed reading, working puzzles, and continuing to learn. His sharp mind, inquisitive nature, and thoughtful perspective remained with him throughout his life. Whether through conversation, business, athletics, service, or faith, he had a way of encouraging others and leaving them better than he found them.

Herb was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Nellie Ritsema; his wife, Joan Ritsema; brothers Albert Ritsema, Robert Ritsema, and Roger Ritsema; sisters Jane Cooke and Sue VandenBosch; sisters-in-law Wilma Ritsema and Cheryl Ritsema; brothers-in-law Cliff Cooke and Bob VandenBosch; and his cherished grandson, Nicholas Dykstra.

He is survived by his wife, Janice Ritsema; his children, Sheryl (Daniel) Kuznar, Julie (Steve) Dykstra, Sally (Thomas) Abt, and William (Pamela) Ritsema; his grandchildren, Rachel (Nick) Titus, Ryan (Heather) Kuznar, Jason (Brianna) Dykstra, Jessica (Eric) Visser, Jennifer (Ronald) Bart, Natalie (Andrew) Lau, Kyle (Taylor) Ritsema, Kevin Ritsema, Nathan (Marissa) Ritsema, and Kaylee Ritsema; 14 great-grandchildren; Janice's children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; his brothers, James (Jean) Ritsema and William (Verna) Ritsema; his beloved nieces and nephews; and many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Herb's family finds comfort in knowing that the Lord he loved and served throughout his life has welcomed him into his eternal home. His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the friendships he nurtured, the businesses he built, the community he helped strengthen, and the countless lives he touched through his kindness, encouragement, and unwavering faith.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." — 2 Timothy 4:7

A life well lived. A race well run. A faith well kept.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 9th at Zaagman Memorial Chapel (2800 Burton St SE, Grand Rapids) from 5:00PM – 8:00PM. A funeral service will be held the following day, Wednesday, June 10th at Calvary Church (707 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids) at 11AM. He will be laid to rest at Rest Lawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate that donations be made to the Holland Home Resident Fund. https://hollandhome.org/donate/