Ria Duuring

Ria Duuring, age 78, died on Monday, October 26th, 2015 in the company of her family in her home in Long Beach CA. She was born in the town of Nijmegan in the Netherlands to Franciscus and Catherina Pluym and was the youngest of eight children. Ria exuded strength, positivity, patience, personality, love, and grit. Ria's early childhood was overshadowed by the effects of WWII in Europe. Ria was intended to become a Catholic nun and join a convent when she came of age, but she declined the arrangement. She married her sweetheart Jack Reitsma and moved to the United States instead. Ria accomplished her dream of becoming an American citizen and cherished the memory of the soldiers that brought peace and stability back to her homeland in Europe. Ria enjoyed an extensive career in fashion/jewelry retail where she acquired much popularity among her coworkers and customers. She particularly loved the sophistication, glamour, and social aspects of her profession. Ria learned to play piano as a young child, and she remained a lover of music her entire life. Ria's life philosopy was to spread love and joy to everyone. She was particularly fond of accepting people and situations for who and what they are. Her favorite quote was Que Sera Sera. Ria is survived by her four sons: Andrew, Brendan, Sharif, and Tyler; four grandchildren: Riley, Avery, Scarlett, and James; in addition to countless friends, family, and admirerers. She will be remembered as happy, bright, beautiful, and energetic woman. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, November 3rd, 2015 at St. Cornelius Church, 5500 E. Wardlow Road, Long Beach, CA 90808. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, 1500 E. San Antonio Drive, Long Beach, CA 90807. Concluding with a Celebration of Life at Ria's home in Long Beach, CA 90808. In Lieu of flowers memorials may be made in Ria's name to the Doris Day Animal Foundation.