John Paul Duritza III, 74, of Traverse City, MI peacefully passed away on Friday, October 23, 2020 in the comfort of his home after a valiant battle to cancer. John remained strong and brave throughout his final months.


John was born in Detroit, MI on January 19, 1946 to the late John Paul II and Florence (May) Duritza. He graduated from Warren High School in the Class of 1964. One year later, he married Jacqueline Badalamento and became a proud father to four beautiful children, Christy, John IV, Mary, and Michael Duritza. Eventually, he married the love of his life, Debbie DeCatur-Duritza, on December 10, 2010 in Traverse City.


John was passionate about his career in the furniture business. He worked for Art Van Furniture for over 45 dedicated years as a sales manager both down state and in Traverse City.


One of John's favorite things to do was travel, especially to Las Vegas. While his children were growing up, he loved teaching them how to play every board and card game that there is. He was a lifelong sports fan of the Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Tigers, and the Detroit Lions. John liked to golf and loved to bowl.


John is survived by his beloved wife, Debbie; children, Christy (Keith) Warren-Duritza, John Paul IV (Lisa) Duritza, Mary (Tim) Duritza; grandchildren, Vinnie and Nicole Warren; brother Douglas; stepsons Daniel (Jamie), Dustin (Amy), Ryan DeCatur; sister in laws Barb (Duane) Cole, Diane (Brad) Sharpe; step-grandchildren Justun, Teia, Emma; step-great-grandchild Kayden and many other nieces, nephews, and cousins.


John is preceded in death by his parents John Paul II and Florence (May) Duritza and infant son, Michael James Duritza.


A celebration of life will be held in the spring of 2021.


In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in John Duritza's name to The American Cancer Society at https://www.cancer.org


Thoughts and memories of John can be shared with his family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com