Donald Rittgers
Donald R. Rittgers, 85, formerly of Marion, died June 27, 2006, at Emporia.
Born June 14, 1921, on the family farm near Roxbury, he was the son of Sanford and Etta (Gay) Rittgers.
On Sept. 9, 1951, he married Della Nickel at Hillsboro.
The couple made their home in Newton before moving in 1961 to Marion. He opened an upholstery shop in downtown Marion and later moved the shop to his home.
He was widely known for his upholstery skills, making awnings for the Mary White movie filmed in Florence. His work also was featured in Four Wheel Drive magazine.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Della in 2002; brother, Lloyd; and five sisters, Freda Smith, Marie Crowthers, Lena Dawe, Dorothy Rittgers, and Bonnie Gay.
Survivors include a son, David Rittgers of Holcomb; daughter, Debra Rittgers of Lebo; sister, Letha Garrett of Wichita; and two granddaughters.
Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at Eastmoor United Methodist Church, Marion, with the Rev. Rick Branson and the Rev. Margaret Gunselman officiating.
Greg Carlson was vocalist. Anita Brookens was organist.
Burial was in Marion Cemetery.
Memorial funds have been established with Lebo United Methodist Church and Holiday Resort, Emporia.
