Richard (Dick) Duane Ritter
June 24, 1932 - March 9, 2024

Richard Duane Ritter (Dick), 91 of Bradenton, FL, passed away March 9, 2024.

Dick was born in Minneapolis, MN to Harold and Eleanor Ritter on June 24, 1932. He grew up in both Minneapolis and Lake Lillian, MN, where many family members from Tromso, Norway had settled.

He graduated from high school in Minneapolis and worked a variety of jobs in his youth such as pin setter in a bowling alley, paper boy and radio repair. He eventually started his employment at Honeywell in Golden Valley, MN where he worked for 38 years mainly as foreman and supervisor. He was highly regarded and offered many promotions which he politely turned down so he would always have the time he needed to devote to his faith and family.

He met his future wife, Joanne Minnick, in 1956 and they were married on July 4th, 1959. They were married for 64 years and inseparable until her passing on October 13, 2023.

Dick greatly enjoyed his travels throughout the country with family and friends. The many cruises he took with Joanne in their later years were a highlight for him. He enjoyed playing cards with friends and watching movies, especially old-time musicals. He was an avid reader and lifelong learner.

Dick was a wonderful father to his two children, Jeff and Cheryl. He worked hard to be a good provider and was a role model as head of the house. He had an adventurous side that definitely showed during travels such as whitewater rafting in Colorado and riding mules down into the Grand Canyon. He often gathered the family together for an evening of playing cards and games.

Dick is survived by his son, Jeffrey Ritter, daughter, Cheryl (Steve) Persell, grandchildren, Alex (Emily) Sullivan, Lanie Sullivan (Tyler Dowden), Jayla Ritter and Veronica Ritter and great granddaughter, Vivienne Sullivan. He is pre-deceased by his wife Joanne Ritter, mother, Eleanor Larson and step-father, Bob Larson.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, April 5th, at 7 pm at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 2109 57th Street East, Bradenton, FL. 34208

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