Edward A. Ritter

Edward A. Ritter, 63, of Springfield, died at 7:45 a.m. on Tuesday, December 31, 2013 at St. John's Hospital. Edward was born May 7, 1950 in Springfield, the son of George H. and Betty A. Meiron Ritter. He married Elizabeth Zrillic on September 6, 1969 at St. Aloysius Church. Edward was a graduate of Griffin High School and owned and operated Creative Auto Body for 43 years. Ed never met a stranger and was loved by all who knew him. He loved his animals, and was a collector of cars, tractors and lawn mowers. He was preceded in death by his parents and one daughter, Kimberly Ritter. He is survived by his wife, Betty Ritter of Springfield; one daughter, Chrissi (husband, Jeff) Bax of Springfield; two grandchildren, Nick and Baylee Bax; two siblings, Pat Kmett and Mike Ritter, both of Springfield; mother-in-law, Betty Zrillic; two aunts and two uncles; and five nephews; and several cousins. Visitation: Family will receive friends from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, January 3, 2014 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Funeral Ceremony: 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 4, 2014 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, with Chaplain John Nelson officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to: Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Rd., Springfield, IL 62702.