Richard L. Ritz, age 78, of Nelsonville, Ohio, passed away May 25, 2025 at The Laurels of Athens, Ohio.

Richard was born August 22, 1946 to Alva Ritz and Violet Finn Ritz. He was a graduate of Nelsonville High School; served in the US Army during Vietnam; worked at Carborundum, Nelsonville Water Plant, Rocky Boots, and McBee; former Boy Scout Master of Troop 303; Cub Scout Master Troop 364 for approximately 40 years,

He treasured his time with his family, his special friends Pam & Butch Levering and his dogs. Richard was the most amazing husband, father, and grandfather. He didn’t only take care of and love his family, but everyone that he could. We are sorry to lose such a wonderful man, but we are happy to know he is now dancing on the golden streets of Heaven, with our beloved mother.       

Surviving are his children Matt (Kerri) Ritz, Sonya Hook, Nina (Calvin) Chalkey; grandchildren Justin (Marya) Hook, Sophia (Jorden) Bruce, Austin (Heather) Hook, Kyle Ritz, Dylan (Ally) Hook, Bryce (Anthony) Ritz, Kalvin Chalkey, Clarissa Chalkey; great-grandchildren Isabella (Dallas) Hook, Anna Hook, Athena Gaskill Hook, Archer Hook, Urban Holland, Brielle Hook, Rylie Estep, Rowan Hook, Eva Ritz; great-great-grandchild Westen Snider; sister-in-law Judy Ritz; brother-in-laws Len and Sam Kinnison many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents; wife Nancy Ritz; sister Betty Joe Armbruster; brother Bob Ritz; brother-in-law Bob Armbruster; mother-in-law Charlotte Kinnison.

Funeral services will be held at 4pm., Saturday May 31, 2025 at the Warren-Brown Funeral Home, Nelsonville, Ohio with Rev. Mike Thomas officiating. Private burial will be held at a later date in Greenlawn Cemetery, Nelsonville, Ohio. Military service will be conducted by the Combined Color Guard .

Calling hours will be observed 4-8pm Friday at the funeral home.

The family wishes to thank the staff at the Laurels, and the very special friends he made at the Laurels.