Robert Forrest Ritter

Robert Forrest Ritter, age 94, of Paw Paw passed away Wednesday, June 14, 2018 at his home with his family at his side.  Bob was born April 13, 1924 in Lawton, MI the son of the late Forrest and Nettie (Beach) Ritter.  He graduated from Lawton High School class of 1943.  Bob was a veteran of the Korean War serving in the U.S. Army and was a member of the Water-Hackenberg Post 220, Lawton.  Bob was employed by Welch Foods in Lawton as a mechanic retiring in 1986 and served as president for 19 years and secretary / treasurer for five years with UFCW Local Union # 825.  On November 12, 1954 in Marcellus, MI Bob was united in marriage to Marlene Joyce Mauk.  They were happily married for 53 years.  Marlene preceded him in death on July 22, 2008.  He was also preceded in death by an infant son, two brothers, Harley E. and Elmer R.; sisters, Lois Ritter, Phyllis (Ritter) Dolph.  Surviving are a son, David W. Ritter of Lawton, daughter, Martha (David) Szotek of Paw Paw; grandchildren, David Ritter, Jr., Amanda Lockmiller, and Derrick Szotek; four great grandchildren, Bryn Ritter, Brayson Ritter and Chevelle  Ritter and Tegan Lockmiller; Sister, Pat Gerrald of Mullins, SC; many nieces and nephews.  Bob was a member of the First Baptist Church, Lawton for 70 years.  He enjoyed making friends and was a master baker, baking banana bread, cookies and coffee cakes for his friends and the entire community.  He also loved gardening.  Family will receive friends on Saturday, June 23, 2018 11 a.m. til noon at the First Baptist Church, Lawton with services to follow visitation at 12 noon with Rev. Lonnie Carpenter officiating.  Inurnment of cremains will be in Oak Grove Cemetery, Lawton.  Memorial contributions may be directed to the family.