Alma Rosalie Ritz, 78, daughter of Wilfred and Bertha Firestone Wilhite, passed away July 4, 2014. She was born July 6, 1935, at Union.
She married Clyde Aaron Backues in August 1954. They had seven children: Brenda Flanigan, Waynesville; Pamela Gorman, Licking; Ralph Backues, Licking; Starla J. Garrett, Licking; Clyde “Boogie” Backues Jr., Houston; Bobby Backues, Rolla; and James Backues, Licking.
She married Charles “Junior” Ritz in February 1975. This union includes three children: Patricia Fall, Springfield; Steve Ritz, Licking; and Greg Ritz, Rolla.
Numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren also survive.
She was proceeded in death by her parents, one step-brother, Donnie Wilhite and a granddaughter.
She enjoyed traveling with her husband, Junior, to the Platte River to camp and cook. Creating recipes and sewing were among her favorite hobbies. Her compassion for helping others was shown not only with family and friends, but also through her desire to care for the elderly in healthcare. She aided her husband’s ministry for many years in the Licking community.
Services for Mrs. Ritz were Tuesday, July 8, at Fox Funeral Home with Pastor Carolyn Campbell officiating. Burial was in the Cantrell Cemetery.
Online condolence can be made at www.foxfh.net. Memorial contributions are suggested to Cantrell Cemetery.