Robert Delmer Ritter

Robert Delmer Ritter passed away on Wednesday, May 22, 2013 at his home in Visalia after 80 years of life. Born in Ohio on October 18, 1932 and raised on a farm, the thought of a crop was just who he was. Growing up with a large family and being poor, he learned early that the only way to get ahead was hard work. His first job was working on the C&O Railroad in Ohio. Robert married his wife for life, Rose Louis Fatzinger on January 30, 1953 and they promptly had five children, Steve, Nancy, Robert, Tim and Mike. Moving out west in 1960, he couldn’t get a job on the railroad with his experience because he didn’t have a high school diploma, which he obtained later in life. So he started a career with Montgomery Wards. This job started a cycle of chasing another buck, moves and promotions. In 1972, Robert moved to Visalia and said he wasn’t moving anymore. He lived in Visalia the remainder of his life. His work time at Wards brought many friends along the way. After Wards, he worked for City of Visalia and quit when political and work pressure were no longer something he needed to deal with. So to keep busy, he started a little lawn business with a friend. As age became a factor, his biggest interest was his garden and canning.

As a father he really enjoyed watching and coaching his boys in sports. He was an avid bowler and a longtime member of the Moose Lodge. He enjoyed family very much and made annual trips to Ohio during retirement to be with his siblings. After Rose passed away he had a hard time being without her and we are sure that he is happy now that he is with her.

Come celebrate the great life of our father, Robert on Saturday, June 29, 2013 at 2 p.m. at Miller Memorial Chapel, 1120 W. Goshen Avenue in Visalia.

Tributes and condolences may be made at www.millerchapel.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Miller Memorial Chapel, 1120 W. Goshen Avenue, Visalia, CA 93291 (559) 732-8371.