James “Jim” Edward Ritz left this world on Nov. 1, 2023, to be reunited with his beloved wife, Marie. Jim was born on Jan. 7, 1930, to Edward James Ritz and Geradine Holcomb who preceded him in death. His brothers Thomas, Jack, and his grandson, Stephen Michael Kassimer also entered the heavenly kingdom prior to his passing.
He is survived by his children, Zelma (Mike) Kassimer of Uniontown Pa., John (Sheila) Ritz of Las Vegas, and Bob (Mary) Ritz of Urbandale, Iowa; and his grandchildren Jennifer (Prestin) Lewis, Jason (Rebecca) Ritz, John (Kristin) Ritz, Josephine (Ben) Bingham, Amanda (Bill) Glisan, Katherine (Trent) Hendershot, Andrew(Brittany) Ritz, Michael (Colleen) Ritz, Christopher Ritz; as well as his cherished great-grandchildren Michaela, Morgan, Grayson, Alexandra, Molly, Miles, Charlotte, Aubrey, Cohen, Wyatt, Charlie, Henry and Calahan.
Jim was a Navy veteran of the Korean Conflict and a proud graduate of West Liberty University at the ripe old age of 40. He was an avid reader, Civil War enthusiast, art aficionado and proponent of everything education. He and Marie took great pride in hosting friends and neighbors at Happy Hour on their front porch and instituting the long-standing tradition of the Ritz Family Easter at Oglebay which has been in existence for nearly 50 years.
At Jim’s request, there will be no public visitation. A graveside service is planned for Saturday, Nov. 4, at 10 a.m. in Greenwood Cemetery, Wheeling, with Father Carlos L. Melocoton, Jr. presiding.
In lieu of flowers, Jim’s family would welcome a donation to St. Michael Church, 1225 National Road, Wheeling, WV 26003 or The World of Good Foundation in memory of his grandson at 441 Laurel Hill Road, Smock PA, 15480 or simply a recitation of his favorite devotion to the most Holy Rosary.
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