Christina E. Ritter

Christina E. Ritter, age 81, a longtime resident of Northville, passed away on January 6, 2025. She was born on July 15, 1943 in Detroit, Michigan; daughter of Robert and Ruth (Schaarschmidt) Shawl. Tina, as her family and friends called her, graduated from Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic School in Farmington, class of 1961. She continued her education at Mercy School of Nursing of Detroit; graduating in 1964 as a Registered Nurse. Tina was united in marriage to Ralph Lane Ritter, Jr. on January 30, 1965, after meeting on a blind date; they spent over 59 years devoted to each other until his recent death on November 14, 2024.

As the oldest of 10 children, Tina naturally embraced the role of caregiver and was deeply  committed to helping others. This dedication led her to pursue a career as a Registered Nurse. Her versatility and skill allowed her to work as a float nurse at St. Joseph Hospital in Ypsilanti, adapting to various roles as needed. As a working mom, Tina thoughtfully adjusted her shifts to prioritize her children while continuing to provide compassionate care to countless others. She also volunteered to assist with health check-ups through her church, St. Kenneth Catholic Church in Plymouth.

Tina was a passionate gardener with an exceptional green thumb, crafting stunning perennial gardens at her home and nurturing vibrant, flourishing houseplants. A dedicated member of the Country Garden Club of Northville for many years, she shared her passion for horticulture with others.

An avid reader, Tina was a regular at the library, feeding her love for books and often finishing one a day. In recent years, she shifted her focus to watching period dramas like Call the Midwife, animal shows such as The Incredible Dr. Pol, and educational programs like Finding Your Roots and Antiques Roadshow.

Tina had a deep appreciation for the  outdoors and the beauty of nature. She enjoyed hiking, birdwatching, and spending time in serene settings. Her love for her family was boundless, and she cherished every moment spent with them. A seasoned traveler, Tina explored the United States and ventured overseas. Some trips were family-focused, such as visiting her sisters throughout North America, traveling to China and Europe to spend time with her daughter or relaxing with loved ones on Hilton Head Island. She and her husband Lane were always ready for adventure, including a memorable road trip out west in a Corvette while she was pregnant with their first child. Whether staying at charming Bed and Breakfasts, enjoying scenic views, or exploring local botanical gardens, Tina embraced life’s journey with enthusiasm and joy.

Tina is survived by her children, Laura (Jim) Schultz, Julia (Scott) Ross, and Mark Ritter; and her siblings, Richard Shawl, Gerald (Rochelle) Shawl, Susan (Michel) de Geyter, Janice (George) Jeruzal, and John Shawl. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her brother Robert Shawl; and her sisters, Mary Shawl, Judith Shawl, and Renee Shawl.

Visitation will be held Friday, January 10, 2025 from 12:30 p.m. until 1:30 p.m. with a Funeral  Mass beginning at 1:30 p.m. at St. Kenneth Catholic Church, 14951 North Haggerty Road, Plymouth.  Mrs. Ritter will be laid to rest at Rural Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial contributions to the Humane Society of Huron Valley , 3100 Cherry Hill Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105.