Ralph Lane Ritter, Jr.

Ralph Lane Ritter, Jr.,  age 89, a longtime resident of Northville, passed away on November 14, 2024. He was born on November 1, 1935 in Grand Rapids, Michigan; son of Ralph Lane Ritter, Sr. and Stella E. (Baker) Ritter. Lane, as he was known to family and friends, graduated from East Grand Rapids High School in Michigan; class of 1954. Following high school, he continued his education at the University of Michigan where he earned a  bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering. Lane met the love of his life, Christina “Tina” Shawl on a blind date. They were united in marriage on January 30, 1965 and spent 59 years devoted to one another.

Lane dedicated much of his career to General Motors working at the Willow Run Assembly Plant in Ypsilanti for many years before retiring early. Following his retirement, Lane embraced a new opportunity with a company specializing in fundraising for Catholic churches across the United States, a role that allowed him to combine his professional skills with his love of travel.

Lane was a devoted and longtime member of St. Kenneth Catholic Church, where he selflessly gave his time and talents to numerous roles and committees. He approached each responsibility with dedication and care, whether helping with fish fries and pancake breakfasts, playing on the church softball team, volunteering with the Catholic Services Appeal (CSA), serving on the Finance Council, or overseeing the lector schedule. Lane’s commitment to his faith and his church community was unwavering and an inspiration to all who knew him.

Lane’s life was defined by his deep love for his family, faith, and a zest for adventure. He had an adventurous spirit and a passion for travel, exploring destinations both in the U.S. and abroad. He especially enjoyed river cruises through Europe and China, memorable trips to Las Vegas with his son, and hiking trips and impromptu ski outings up north with his wife and kids in his younger days. A devoted and supportive father, Lane always prioritized his family.

Lane was a true foodie, delighting in cooking meals, discovering new restaurants, and getting the most out of a buffet. Known for his frugality, he never missed an opportunity to find a great deal or use his reward points. An avid birdwatcher, he enjoyed feeding backyard birds and seeking bird watching opportunities during his travels. Lane was also a lifelong sports fan, cheering passionately for his hometown teams—the Tigers, Lions, and Pistons. A dog lover at heart, Lane had a special affection for the Wire Hair Fox Terrier breed, which began with the rescue of one and blossomed into a lifelong bond.

His life was enriched by his faith, as a beloved member of St. Kenneth Catholic Church, and by his cherished family and friends. Lane will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Lane is survived by his loving wife, Christina Ritter; and his children, Laura (Jim) Schultz, Julia (Scott) Ross, and Mark Ritter. He was preceded in death by his mother, Stella Ritter; his father, Ralph Lane Ritter, Sr.; his stepmother Marvel Zona; his sister, Mary Cartier; and his brothers, Jon Ritter and Richard Ritter.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at 10:30am with visiting beginning at 9:30am at St. Kenneth Catholic Church, 14951 N. Haggerty Road, Plymouth. Mr. Ritter will be laid to rest at Rural Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial contributions to Wire Fox Terrier Rescue Midwest , PO Box 141, Dumont, IA 50625. https://www.wirefoxrescuemidwest.com/