Mary Ritter, age 86 of Hobart, Indiana passed away Monday, July 14, 2014. She was born on February 9, 1928 in Gary, Indiana to the late Stevan and Eva Churchia. On August 10, 1946, she married the love of her life, Edward Ritter. In the late 1950, while her husband Ed was injured and unable to work for two years due to an industrial accident, and with four small children at home, Mary worked tirelessly to support her family through that tough time. In 1962 she developed and built up a drapery manufacturing unit for JC Penney and became one of the first women in the United States to reach the position of store manager. She was a devoted member of Trinity Lutheran Church. Mary valued every minute spent with her extended family. She loved and adored her nine grandchildren, who were all special to her. She cherished the time she was able to spend with each of her great grandchildren.

Mary is survived by 4 children: Edward Ritter of Carpentersville, IL, Michael (Gail) Ritter of Portage, IN, Ruth (Bruce) Wilkinson of Hobart, IN, and Mary (Robert) Schmidt of Joliet, IL; sister, Millie Zakula of California; sister in law, Helen Churchia of South Bend; 9 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren and one on the way.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Stevan and Eva Churchia; husband of 64 years, Edward Ritter and two brothers, John and Gordon Churchia. Memorial contributions in Mary's name may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church.

A funeral service for Mary will be held on Thursday, July 17, 2014 at 11:00 am at Trinity Lutheran Church, 900 Luther Drive, Hobart with Rev. Gary S. Nagy officiating. She will be laid to rest at Hobart Cemetery. Visitation will take place at Trinity Lutheran Church on Thursday from 10:00 am until the time of service. For more information, please call (219) 942-2109. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com