Paul David Rittgarn

Paul D. Rittgarn, son of the late Frederick J. Rittgarn and Shirley L. Rittgarn (née Klemann), was born on June 21, 1941, in Lisle, Illinois, and parted this life surrounded by his loved ones on September 17, 2024, at the age of 83 years. Paul spent most of his life in the Lisle area, where he worked several jobs until he became a self-employed carpenter. Paul was a devout Catholic and found peace in praying the Divine Mercy Chaplet every night before bed. Paul had an avid interest in fishing and gardening. He took pride in the many things he grew and loved to mow the lawn. He relished warm, sunny days and would spend much time sitting outside where he could watch wildlife at play. Paul took great delight in viewing fireworks on the 4th of July. Paul enjoyed old westerns, talent shows, and listening to music. His favorite band was AC/DC, whom he saw live in concert at the age of 67. He also loved pickles, hamburger gravy with mashed potatoes, and chocolate malts. Paul had a great sense of humor and will forever be remembered by those blessed to have known him as having a big heart, helping others, and making people laugh.

Paul is survived by his wife, Sharon (née Hird) of 51 years; his three children, Teri (Scott) Smith of Rochelle, Illinois, Richard (Kelsey) Rittgarn of Elburn, Illinois, Shelley (Dave) Qually of Florence, Kentucky; nine grandchildren, Jessica Talbert of Lisle, Illinois, whom he raised as his own daughter, Danielle Smith of Rochelle, Illinois, Ryan (Claudia) Rittgarn of St. Charles, Illinois, Erik (Jacky) Rittgarn of Yorkville, Illinois, Aaron and Beau Rittgarn of Elburn, Illinois, Kyle Qually of Batavia, Ohio, and Nathan and Emma "Reese" Qually of Florence, Kentucky; one brother, Fred (Patricia) Rittgarn of Naperville, Illinois, and two sisters, Barbara Heilenbach of Sycamore, Illinois, and Carol Rudnick of Minooka, Illinois. Many nieces, nephews, and friends also survive. Paul was preceded in death by his parents and his two beloved dogs, Rocky and Oreo.

Visitation will be held Thursday, October 3, 2024, at 10:00 AM at the St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church & School at 820 Division St., Lisle, IL 60532. Funeral Mass to follow at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church & School at 11:00 AM with Rev. Radek officiating. Interment will be private.