Gerry Lee Ridderman's Obituary
Gerry Lee Ridderman, age 74, passed away on Tuesday, March 2, 2021. He was born on August 11, 1946 to Gerrit and Esther (Miller) Ridderman in Grand Rapids. Gerry served his country in the United States Army. During his work life he was employed at Howmet for 23 years, owned the Genesis Computer Company for 4 years and retired from L3 after 11 years. On October 28, 1972 he married the love of his life, the former Linda King, and together they spent 48 happy years together. Gerry was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt, fish, and play golf. He will be remembered for being such a loving and adoring husband, father, and grandfather to family. He was affectionately known as “Papa Grary” by his grandson, Cole, who spent a lot of time growing up around his grandfather. He is survived by his loving wife, Linda Ridderman; children, Michelle (Louis) DiGiovanni, David Ridderman; grandchildren, Tarra Ridderman-Gilland, Vito DiGiovanni, Vincent DiGiovanni, Cole Ridderman; brother, Mike (Betsy) Ridderman; sister, Karen Ridderman; aunt, Donna Maddren; sister-in-law, Barb (Dan) Bowen; and several nieces and nephews. A LIMITED OCCUPANCY VISITATION will be held on Sunday, March 7, 2021 from 1:00 – 3:00 PM at The Lee Chapel of The Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St. Norton Shores, MI 49444. For a more lasting memory, donations in Gerry’s name can be made to the Harbor Hospice Foundation. Feel free to sign the family’s online guestbook and share a memory at www.sytsemafh.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Gerry?
What’s a lesson you learned from Gerry?
Share a story where Gerry's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Gerry you’ll never forget.
How did Gerry make you smile?