Obituary of Ronald E. Ritter

Ronald Edward Ritter, age 63, Died at Legacy Emmanuel Hospital on Wednesday, January 25, 2012. Following a courageous battle with cancer, diabetes and congestive heart failure. He was born October 12, 1948 in the Town of Ryderwood WA, to the late Roy and Deloris Ritter. He attended Forks Grade School, Morton Elementary School and graduated from Montesano High School in 1966. Ronald served in the U.S. Army in the 82nd Airborne Division as a Combat Engineer. He was stationed for two years in Karlsruhe, Germany, then was stationed in Vietnam where he was wounded in action by a landmine triggered nearby, during a foot patrol. He received a Bronze, Star, Army Commendation Medal and Purple Heart for his courageous service in the US Army. Ron Ritter graduated from Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon. He received his Bachelors degree in Agriculture. He established Ritter Vegetation Service in 1976, a company that has flourished under his guidance for 35 years. Ron is survived by his two sons Todd and Timothy, his daughter Valarie Eckloff, and his former wife Nancy Pettijohn. He is also survived by six brothers, Gary, David, Rich, Jim, Leroy, Rod, and one sister, Bonnie. He is predeceased by one brother, Donald. He was the beloved brother, grandfather and uncle of many grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Ron Ritter was well liked by those in his community, loved by his family, and adored by his dog, Mayday. He will be remembered in many ways by many people. As a man who gave generously to his family as well as strangers, A scholar who relentlessly studied the topics that interested him, an employer who cultivated excellence in those under him, a philosopher and amateur anthropologist who’s insights and perspectives instilled thought, a father who strove to instill values and a good work ethic in his children. His Celebration of life ceremony will be February 11th at 11:00 at Montesano Assembly of God Located at 125 S. Sylvia St. Montesano, WA 98563.