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John A.H. Ressmeyer, 79, of Norman passed away while cycling on Monday, April 6, 2020. He was born December 26, 1940, in Bronx, New York to John Frederick Ressmeyer and Elsy Katherine Weltz.
John lived a life enriched by the service of his country, his state and his community. He was a lifelong athlete with a penchant for adventure, running marathons, competing in triathlons, bicycle races and participating in countless club rides and recreational events across the state and around the country. But most of all, he loved his family, his friends and his dogs.
After growing up in Bronx, John attended Hartwick College in Oneonta, NY, where he earned a degree in business administration, graduating in 1962. He then went on to live a life of leadership and achievement, serving 28 years in the United States Marine Corps, retiring in 1990, as Commander of the 14th Marines in Dallas, Texas. He obtained the rank of Colonel.
From 1966 to 1968, John served with valor during two tours of duty in Vietnam, where he was awarded the Legion of Merit, the Presidential Unit Citation, the Purple Heart, and two Navy Commendation Medals with combat “V”, the Navy Unit Citation, and the Combat Action Ribbon. He was also a recipient of the Field Artillery’s Ancient Order of Saint Barbara.
Following his military career, John joined the Oklahoma Department of Tourism in 1993, becoming Director of State Parks before retiring in 2003. This second career with Oklahoma State Parks proved to be an unexpectedly rewarding and meaningful opportunity to serve.
John lived a healthy life and found great joy in exercise and competition, taking part in multiple marathons and triathlons. After retiring to Norman, John joined the Bicycle League of Norman, and was an ardent, active member for nearly 25 years, serving as president and treasurer for multiple years.
John is remembered by his family and friends as a man who cared deeply about others, was a good and honorable friend to many and a passionate supporter of Norman’s cycling community. He was known for his mentoring and leadership to fellow peddlers, new to cycling or well experienced.
John’s wartime experience and love of children led him to the adoption of two Korean children, Kellen and Lee Ressmeyer. They were truly the most meaningful part of his life. As a parent, he found true joy. With grown children and a longing to love, John continued to adopt, rescuing many abandoned standard poodles. Like his children, they brought him much happiness and hours of delight walking the outdoors.
He was preceded in death by his parents. John is survived by his wife of 25 years, Kris Bowline; his children Kellen Ressmeyer, Manhattan, NY and Lee Ressmeyer, South Bend, IN.
Memorial Services will be held in Norman at a later date. John will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery with services pending.
Memorials may be made in memory of John A.H. Ressmeyer to Second Chance Animal Sanctuary of Norman or charity of choice.
Arrangements for John Ressmeyer and his family were placed in the care of Havenbrook Funeral Home of Norman. Online condolences may be shared at www.HavenbrookFuneralHome.com.
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