Della Rittgers
Della Ruth Nickel was born Jan. 14, 1934, at Goessel, a daughter of the late David B. and Bertha (Neufeld) Nickel.
On Sept. 9, 1951, she was married to Donald Richard Rittgers at Hillsboro. The couple had two children, David Ray and Debbie René.
She was employed by Marion Unified School District as a bus driver, and was highly regarded by the children. She retired in 1995 after 22 years of service.
Survivors include her husband, Don, of the home; son, David of Holcomb; daughter, Debbie Thomas of Lebo; brother, Melford E. Nickel of Valley Center; sister, Rosella Plenert of Marion; and two grandchildren.
Services were held Thursday afternoon at Eastmoor United Methodist Church, Marion, with the Rev. John Goering officiating.
Burial was in Marion Cemetery.
Music was provided by Diane Boese singing "How Great Thou Art" and "His Eyes Are On The Sparrow," with Roy Mann singing "The Lord's Prayer." Suzanne Thole was the organist.
A memorial fund has been established in her name at Hilltop Manor in Marion.
