John"E.J." Ramseyer

Traverse City - EJ Ramseyer, 65, of Traverse City passed away unexpectedly Thursday, May 3rd, 2012.

EJ was born June 27th, 1946 to Elvin and Ella (Motz) Ramseyer in Elkton, Michigan. He graduated from Elkton-Pigeon-Bayport High School in 1964 and then attended Central Michigan University graduating with a degree in accounting while proudly marching in the CMU marching band. It was in college that he learned to appreciate the gift of music which then encompassed the rest of his life. While completing a tour in Vietnam from 1970-1971, he entertained other soldiers in USO shows and provided honors as a bugler. He relocated to Northern Michigan in 1974 where he met the love of his life, Mary Ballard. They married on August 21, 1976 in Petoskey, Michigan. E.J. loved Traverse City and Northern Michigan, and this is where they raised their two children, Abigail and Jacob.

He loved people and was so proud to call Northern Michigan home. He was a consummate sportsman and particularly enjoyed hunting, boating, swimming in the bay, and spending time with his family. A gifted musician, he touched many lives with song and entertained people since the age of 4. He played with the bands Foregone Conclusion, Delta Cruise, and most recently, Rebooted. He could also be found playing the organ at the State Theatre for those waiting to view a movie. He led worship services with music and song for many years. Most of all he loved playing music with his son, Jacob, an accomplished jazz guitarist. Together, they filled their home with music and shared their love of music with many.

In 2011, he attended the Charles W. Howard Santa School, and had a joyous holiday season spreading the Christmas spirit around town. He touched the hearts of many and always had a twinkle in his eye.

E.J. is survived by his wife, Mary (Ballard) Ramseyer, daughter Abigail, son, Jacob, sister Marilyn (Ramseyer) Buchan, and niece and nephews Beth (Mann) Hepfner, Timothy Mann, Gregory, Bradley, and Kurt Tarrant.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Betty Mae (Ramseyer) Mann, and nephew Nathan Mann.

Memorial Services will be held at Faith Reformed Church on Friday, May 11, 2012 at 3:00 PM with family visitation an hour before.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to, The Salvation Army of Traverse City or Munson Healthcare Foundation Patient Needs Fund of Traverse City. Envelopes will be available at the service.

The family welcomes shared memories of E.J. via the online guestbook @ www.Reynolds-Jonkhoff.com The family is being served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.