Jonathan Ritsema

Jonathan James Ritsema, 48, of Norman, Oklahoma, passed away surrounded by loved ones on January 22, 2025. Born on March 21, 1976, in Ontario, Canada, to Jack Duane and Sandra Beth (Vlieger) Ritsema, Jonathan lived a life of dedication, service, and love.

As the son of a military servicemember, Jonathan experienced life in many places as a child. After graduating high school, he proudly followed in his father's footsteps, serving his country with honor by first joining the Army Reserves, and later active duty in the Air Force as an Air Battle Manager. His service led him to reside in Texas, Florida, Arizona, and Oklahoma.

While stationed in San Antonio, Texas, Jonathan met the love of his life, Michelle Ann Christy. The two married on June 13, 1998, marking the start of a beautiful partnership that spanned over two decades. Together, they raised two wonderful sons, Jacob and Jonah, who brought immense joy and pride to Jonathan’s life.

Jonathan is preceded in death by his beloved mother, Sandra Beth (Vlieger) Ritsema.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Michelle; his cherished sons, Jacob and Jonah; his father, Jack Ritsema; and his siblings: Sara Sexton (Gordan), David Ritsema (Catrina), and Daniel Ritsema. Jonathan also leaves behind his in-laws, Henry and Carolyn (Rutkowski) Christy; brother-in-law Jeff Christy (Terri); sister-in-law Wendy Walding (Chris); and his nieces and nephews: Cheyenne Ritsema, Kaleb Ritsema, Aidan Sexton, Bethany Sexton, Joshua Christy, Amber Drew (Colton), Jasen Christy, Ayden Christy, Zachary Walding, and Ethan Walding.

A man of unwavering faith, loyalty, and compassion, Jonathan will be remembered for his service to his country and community, his love for his family, and his dedication to helping others. His legacy of kindness and selflessness will endure through the many lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Jonathan's memory to the Gary Sinise Foundation, supporting veterans and their families, a cause close to his heart.

Services will be held at 11:00 AM on January 31, 2025 at CrossPointe Church of Norman, 2601 24th Ave SE, Norman, OK 73071. The family will receive friends from 5:00 – 7:00 PM on Thursday, January 30, 2025 at Tribute Memorial Care, 4300 W Indian Hills Rd., Norman, OK 73072. 

Interment will take place at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio Texas on February 13, 2025 at 2:15 PM. 

Services are entrusted to Tribute Memorial Care of Norman. 

Jonathan will be deeply missed but forever remembered with love and gratitude by all who knew him.