Rodney Eugene Ritter Sr.'s Obituary
Rodney Eugene Ritter Sr., age 86, of Adair, passed away peacefully at home with his loving family by his side on August 22, 2025.
Born on a small farm in West Branch, Michigan, on February 7, 1939 to the late Norman and Louise Ritter Sr., Rod grew up with strong values rooted in hard work, family and service. From 1962 to 1964, he proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, where he was stationed at West Point and was honored to chauffeur the Generals — a responsibility he was chosen for because of his moxie.
On July 8, 1964, Rod married the love of his life, Judy Garner, in West Branch. Together, they shared 59 wonderful years of marriage before her passing on February 21, 2024. Their life together was built on deep love, shared adventures and a devotion to their growing family.
Before and after his military service he worked at his brother’s gas station in Detroit where he did everything from pumping gas to mechanic work. Rod dedicated his professional life to being a truck driver, mechanic and heavy equipment operator, in a career that spanned more than five decades. As a proud member of the Operating Engineers Local 324 for over 55 years, he earned a reputation as one of the top operators in the union. Even after retiring in 2000, Rod couldn’t stay away from the machines he loved and continued to lend his expertise locally, operating cranes and other heavy equipment well into his later years.
Beyond work, Rod was a man of many passions. He and Judy spent countless cherished days camping with their children and grandchildren in the Upper Peninsula — especially at Little Brevort Lake and Drummond Island. A picker before the term became popular, Rod had an eye for treasures salvaged from demolition jobs. He had a deep love for the outdoors, missing only two hunting seasons in his lifetime and always looking forward to time spent fishing.
At home, Rod enjoyed caring for his cattle — affectionately known as his “beebee’s.” He loved gardening, especially growing potatoes and giant pumpkins for his grandchildren. A good day for Rod often included baling hay, filling his bird feeders, restoring his antique tractors and ending the day watching a Detroit Red Wings or Tigers game with his family.
Rod was the ultimate father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and neighbor. To many, he was affectionately known as "Bampa" — a name that captured the warmth, love and playful spirit he shared so freely with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. With a lifetime of experience and handyman know-how, he was always the first to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.
Rod is survived by his loving daughters, Teresa (Ken) Volkman, Janice (Dan) Schweihofer and Karen Ritter (Shawn Mow); daughter in law, Nancy Ritter; grandchildren, Lauren (Mark) Morley, Ryan (Kelly) Volkman, Dylan (Karyssa) Volkman, Caleb Volkman, Ivy Schweihofer (fiance Shawn Quinn), Grayson Schweihofer (fiance Shauna VanDeVelde), Ashley (Brian) Vallee and Kyle Ritter; 10 great grandchildren; sister, Joyce Pfeiffer; sisters and brothers-in-law, Jane Ratza, Joann and Jim Guinther, Doug and Sheryl Garner and Jean Martinka as well as many nieces and nephews.
Rod was also predeceased by his son, Rodney E. Ritter Jr. and brothers, Norman Ritter II and Gary Ritter; brothers-in-law, Jerry Ratza and Gus Martinka; sister-in-law, Jenny Ritter.
Rod leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work and kindness that will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. He’s now reunited with his beloved wife, Judy “Bama”, who was waiting for him, “Just Beyond the Moon”.
Special thanks to friend and neighbor, Sheri Betz for the many years of kindness and her delicious homemade meals.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to tree planting in state parks here:https://fundraise.givesmart.com/form/ggbiuw?vid=1l71k8 or to wishes of the family.
Arrangements by Young Funeral Home, China Twp.
Please share a memory with Rod's family by visiting his tribute page at youngcolonial.com
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