Richard L. Ritz, age 78, of Nelsonville, Ohio, passed away May 25, 2025, at The Laurels of Athens, 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; and 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, and Nina (Calvin) Chalkey; grandchildren, Justin (Marya) Hook, Sophia (Jorden) Bruce, Austin (Heather) Hook, Kyle Ritz, Dylan (Ally) Hook, Bryce (Anthony) Ritz, Kalvin Chalkey, and Clarissa Chalkey; great-grandchildren, Isabella (Dallas) Hook, Anna Hook, Athena Gaskill Hook, Archer Hook, Urban Holland, Brielle Hook, Rylie Estep, Rowan Hook, and Eva Ritz; great-great-grandchild, Westen Snider; sister-in-law, Judy Ritz; brothers-in-law, Len and Sam Kinnison; and 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; and mother-in-law, Charlotte Kinnison.

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

Calling hours were observed 4-8 pm Friday, May 30, 2025, at the funeral home.

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