Arlene Mary Ritter's Obituary
Arlene Mary Ritter died peacefully in her sleep on July 5, 2023. The daughter of Czechoslovakian immigrants, she was born in Cleveland, Ohio, May 17, 1938. Arlene met the love of her life, David Ritter, in 1957 where they both worked for Ford Motor Company. They were a constant in each other’s lives until his passing in 1988. David and Arlene raised their children in Dallas, Texas before moving to Tacoma, Washington in 1979. Arlene had the patience of a saint, an infectious laugh, and a sense of style that was unmatched. As well as caring for her own children, Arlene generously welcomed their friends and neighbors to countless sleepovers, pool parties, or simply to share a meal. Along with her beloved husband, Arlene was preceded in death by her daughter Melissa (Missy) Ritter. She is survived by children Tammy Peniston (Lyle), Jill Morrow (Robert), Tricia Ritter, and Michael Ritter, as well as grandchildren David Peniston, Ephraim Peniston, Zachary Davenport, Jordan Davenport, Shelby Hakenson and great grandchildren Ryan Parks, Jace Hakenson and Dixie Clark. Sisters Tammy, Jill, and Tricia express their heartfelt gratitude to their brother Michael for his steadfast care of their mother during the final years of her life.
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