John Jay Ritsema, 71, died at Tranquility Hospice House in Austell, GA, on Saturday, April 25, 2015, of Pancreatic Cancer. Born on March 3, 1944 to John and Freda (Kuiper) Ritsema in Grand Rapids, MI. John lived in Ft. Lauderdale, New York, Miami & Atlanta. He worked as a Civil Engineer, earned an MBA, & enjoyed his family, genealogy, tennis, bridge, music, travel & a love for learning. Survivors include his wife of 49 years Patricia Ruth (Dokter) Ritsema, children: Susan Lynn (George A. Garrison), John David (Lindsey Vander Woude), grandchildren: Christina Lynn Garrison, Stephen John Garrison, John Parker Ritsema, Claire Mae Ritsema, siblings: Marvin J. Ritsema and Luanne Ritsema, nephews & nieces. John was preceded in death by his oldest sister Beth Elaine Noble. A Memorial Service will be held Wednesday, April 29 at 11 am at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Atlanta, GA. Reception to follow. Memorial contributions can be made to Pancreatic Cancer Research (pancan.org) and Tranquility Hospice House (wellstar.org/hospice).