Arthur Ritz
Pontoon Beach |
Arthur Leonard Ritz, age 83, of Pontoon Beach, IL, passed away on Wednesday, January 5, 2022, at his home with his loving family by his side. Arthur was born on August 16, 1938, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Granite City, the son of the late Arthur M. Ritz and Betty (Hart) Ritz.
On October 1, 1960, Arthur married Kathleen Ann Dezan, the love of his life at St. Mary Catholic Church in Madison, IL. He retired from NCR (National Cash Register) as a Field Engineer working on computer hardware systems after many years of dedicated service. He then went to work for Gateway Financial Services working on online banking systems.
Arthur enjoyed riding around on his antique Ford tractor, Model T, motorcycle, and riding their pair of motor scooters all around with Kathy. If you lived in the neighborhood, chances were you’d see him riding his tractor or a Model-T full of kids. If you lived in any nearby town, you probably saw them cruising around on their green motor scooters. He also enjoyed taking road trips, going camping, and fishing. His greatest joy was spending time with his family. He loved music that made him get up and dance, and laughter was the norm if you hung around Art.
Arthur was a loving and devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, and a dear friend to many. He will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved him. Arthur is survived by his devoted wife of sixty-one years, Kathleen Ritz of Pontoon Beach, IL; loving children, Leonard (Amy) Ritz of Madison, IL, Benjamin (Stacie) Ritz of Granite City, IL, and Ann (Becca Lanter) Ritz of Edwardsville, IL; dear sister, Darlene Smith (Dewight) of Rowlett, TX; proud grandfather to Lauren Ritz, Luke Ritz, Madeleine Ritz, and Priscilla Ritz; nieces, nephews, extended family, and many dear friends.
In celebration of his life, a visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 11, 2022, at St. Mary & St. Mark Catholic Church in Madison, IL, with the funeral Mass to follow at 11:00 a.m., with Father Stephen Thompson officiating. Arthur will be laid to rest at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Edwardsville, IL.
Memorial donations may be given to St. Mary & St. Mark Catholic Church, Vitas Hospice, or in the form of Masses. Donations will be accepted at the church.
Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.irwinchapel.com.
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home
