After a courageous battle with cancer and heart disease, John Ritskes is at peace in the arms of his Lord and Savior. He passed away on January 6, 2020 at home surrounded by his loving family. John was born in Smilde, the Netherlands on May 27, 1938 to Renze and Roelofje Ritskes. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Joyce Ritskes (Barbour), his children Kim Jaynes (Albert Jaynes), Randy Ritskes (Debbie) and his grandsons RJ, Steven and Brandon. One of 11 children, John is predeceased by his siblings Andy, Frances, Keith and Martin, and survived by Frank, Henry, Bill, Janne, Nancy and Theresa along with their spouses, many nieces and nephews. He is also remembered by and dear friends Jim and Barb Barbour and Dick and Kathy Van Veldhuisen. John and Joyce were the co-owners of J-R Business Equipment for 29 years serving Brockville, Smiths Falls, Kanata and Kingston. He was proud to be named Smiths Falls Business Person of the Year in 1985. John was involved with the Jaycee’s, Rotary, Masonic, Smiths Falls Old Home Week, Smiths Falls Settlers Days, Brockville business organizations, etc. His love of sports included time spent as Commissioner of Jr “B” Hockey, coaching softball, baseball, owning race cars driven by son Randy and playing soccer, squash and golf. John loved camping with his family and travel. John was a longtime member of the Bethel CRC and his proudest achievement there was serving as Building Chairman. His devotion to his family and his firm belief in God supported him in his struggle and ultimately gave him peace. Special thanks to Pastor Jack Van de Hoef and to the palliative care team at BGH and in particular to Dr. Gerald Ashe, nurses Matt, Cerian, and Melissa and to care partner Mike for the compassionate support. A service in honour and celebration of John’s life will be held at Bethel Christian Reformed Church, 117 Windsor Drive, Brockville on Thursday, January 9 at 11 a.m. A light lunch will be provided after the service. In lieu of flowers, donations to Palliative Care, Brockville or Bethel Christian Reformed Church will be gratefully acknowledged by the family.