Traverse City - Ole Ritola, 73, lifelong resident of Traverse City passed away April 16, 2014 at Munson Medical Center.

Ole was born on August 24, 1940 to the late George and Valberg (Payne) Ritola.

Ole was a contractor and loved to build things. He was known for his craftsman ship and was always willing to lend a hand especially to his neighbors. He loved his tractor and liked to garden. In his younger years he also enjoyed fishing and spending time on his boat in Manistee. Ole loved spending Sunday's at his daughter's house for dinner. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Ole is survived by his children Lori (Tom) Duggan of Traverse City, Bill (Jan) Ritola of St. Petersburg, Fl, and Jan (Jim) Schroth of Troy, Mi, grandchildren Bethany (Isaac ) Ketchum, Diane (Mark) Blankers, and Collin Duggan, and siblings Lars (Judy) Ritola, Karen (Matt) Gore, Nels (Gretchen) Ritola.

Ole was preceded in death by his parents and brother Bill Ritola.

The memorial service celebrating Ole's life will take place on Thursday, April 24 at 4:00 pm at the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions in memory of Ole may be directed to a charity of your choice.