William T. "Tom" Ritter

William T. “Tom” Ritter, age 78, lifelong resident of the Northville/Novi area, passed away February 15, 2021.  He was born on April 12, 1942 in Detroit, Michigan; son of Richard and Alice (nee McClaren) Ritter.  He graduated from Northville High School; Class of 1960.  Tom was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart Joann Hinman on June 23, 1962, they spent 58 years devoted to one another.

Tom worked as a tool and die maker for 30 years, retiring in 1982.  Following retirement, he and his wife traveled all over the country to different art fairs selling their pottery and later stained glass.  Much of their travels were spent chasing warmer weather because if Tom wasn’t sweating, he was cold. Tom was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Northville.  Active with the church, he served as an usher and helped with various handyman projects.  His greatest contributions to the church were the beautiful stained glass that can be found in the sanctuary.

Tom was incredibly kind and generous with his time.  He was always volunteering to help others with anything that they needed, including cleaning neighbors snow and flood relief efforts in North Carolina with his brother-in-law.  He enjoyed puttering around and fixing things, whether it was at home, church, or for others.  First and foremost, in Tom’s life however was his family.  He took wonderful care of his wife and was there for his family whenever they needed him.  Affectionately known as Papa, he adored having daughters and granddaughters, and was equally thrilled to have a great grandson join the mix.  Tom was a beloved husband, father, papa, brother, and friend, he will be missed by all who loved him.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Joann J. Ritter; his daughters, Tammy J. Bingham and Tracy A. Ritter; his siblings, Richard (Jan) Ritter and Kathleen (Sam) Ballard; his granddaughters, Jennifer Noland, Jessie Noland, Randi (Mike) Moore, and Sarah Bingham; and his great grandchildren, David and Luna.   He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Judith Darling and his brother Wayne Ritter.

A memorial service will be held at a later date at First Baptist Church of Northville .

In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate memorial contributions to First Baptist Church, 217 N. Wing, Northville, MI 48167.