Betty Ann Ritter

Betty A.Ritter, 77, of Springfield, died at 2:15 a.m. on Tuesday, August 23, 2005 at St. John’s Hospice. Betty was born on August 10, 1928 in Chicago, the daughter of Charles and Sophie Petkus Meiron. She married George Ritter in 1949 at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church and he preceded her in death in 1977. A lifelong resident of Springfield, Betty was a graduate of Lanphier High School. She was a lifelong member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. She was active and supported the Animal Protective League. She loved animals, art and spending time with her family. She was a retiree from the State of Illinois Secretary of State’s office. She was also preceded in death by her parents and one sister: Helen Meiron. Betty is survived by one daughter: Pat Kmett of Springfield; two sons: Michael (wife, Debbie) Ritter and Edward (wife, Betty Ann) Ritter both of Springfield; six grandchildren: Chrissi Bax, Billy, Bobby and Andy Kmett, Dalton and Noah Ritter; two great-grandchildren; Baylee and Nick Bax; one brother: Charles Paul “Chuck” (wife, Tomi) Meiron of Springfield and several nieces, nephews and cousins. The family will receive friends from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 25, 2005 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St. Springfield. Visitation will begin with a prayer service at 5:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 26, 2005 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1345 N. 6th St. Springfield, with Rev. Msgr. Thomas Holinga celebrant. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Rd., Springfield, IL 62702-1766 or St. John’s Hospice, 800 E. Carpenter, Springfield, IL 62702. The family of Betty A. Ritter is being served by Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St. Springfield.