Gary R. Ritz

August 26, 1961 ~ December 15, 2022 (age 61)

Gary R. Ritz, 61 years old, passed away unexpectedly at 6:30 a.m. on Thursday, December 15, 2022.  Gary was born on August 26, 1961 in Indio, CA to the late John and Roberta (Wells) Ritz. He has lived most of his life in South Bend. Gary honorably served in the United States Marine Corp from 1979 to 1983. Gary worked at Exacto Inc. of South Bend as a machinist.

Gary is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Randy and Dawn Ritz of Argos, IN; step-children, Zachary (Julia) Goad and Cherri Smith; step-grandchildren, Parker, Jaxon, and Jayden; two nephews, Shawn (Tricia) Markin and Keith Ritz; and five great nieces and nephews, Amelia, Dennilyn, Emma, Shawn Collin, and Olivia. Gary is also survived by his step-mother, Mary “Dolly” Ritz of Houston, TX.  Along with his parents, Gary was preceded in death by his nephew, Jay Markin.

A service celebrating the life of Gary Ritz will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 20, 2022 at the Palmer Funeral Home-Guisinger Chapel, 3718 S. Michigan Street, South Bend.  Pastor Mike Rayburn will officiate.  Friends may visit with the family beginning at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Gary R. Ritz may be donated to Pet Refuge, 4626 S. Burnett Drive, South Bend, IN  46614 or Robert L. Miller Sr. Veterans Center, 747 South Michigan Street, South Bend, IN 46601.  Online condolences may be offered to Gary’s family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com. 

12/30/2022 EJS