Obituary of Mary Gertrude Ritter

Mary Gertrude Ritter of Minneapolis, MN passed away peacefully on Friday, May 9, 2025. 

Mary, or Gert as she was known to many, was born on August 2,1942 in the small farm town of Dyersville, Iowa to Anita and Urban Ament. Her childhood was filled with hunting and fishing, family and laughter. While attending St. Francis Xavier in her hometown, Mary painted murals and backdrops for the theater department and went on to major in art at the University of Iowa. 

She left the Hawkeye state for Minneapolis, where she met and married Jack and raised their children in the tiny grey house at the back of the lot. A true artist, Mary continued to master oil painting while operating the antique store that they owned throughout the 70’s and 80’s.  Eventually she dedicated herself to the art of stained glass, where she fostered wonderful friendships and created many great works that have their place in magazines, calendars and in the homes and hearts of those she loved. 

With her detailed and methodical nature, Mary opted for secretarial work, first for retail outlets and later for several government agencies. Mary proudly retired as Squad Secretary working in the Counterterrorism, Cybercrime and Crimes Against Children divisions of the FBI.  

In her later years, Mary’s many interests included Native American history and music, books (particularly Minnesota authors), word puzzles, cheering her kids on, tending her indoor garden and her beloved cats. Mary was an avid Bigfoot enthusiast. 

Mary treasured people and connection over things. She was known for her quick wit, entertaining storytelling, and engaging conversation. Many times, even her health aides would be enticed away from their tasks, sitting with her and laughing the afternoon away. Her humor and generous spirit touched the lives of many, and her presence will be deeply missed. 

Mary is preceded in death by her beloved husband John “Jack” Ritter, parents Urban “Prex” and Anita (Whiting) Ament, and brother Don “Pooch” (Margie) Ament.

She is survived and lovingly remembered by her devoted children Peter (Dana) Mullin; Kaarn (John) Spencer; John (Linda) Ritter; Amy Ritter, her five cherished grandchildren Johnny, Troy, Alexander, Matthew and Kara, and her brother Michael (Geri) Ament, along with extended family and friends.   

The family wishes to thank her compassionate care team at Episcopal Homes Walter House. 

We would love you to share your memories here! 

A celebration of Mary's life will be held on June 25, 2025

at the Cremation Society of Minnesota in Edina (7110 France Avenue, Edina MN).

Visitation with a light meal will begin at 4PM, with a service to follow at 6PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the family in care of Cremation Society of Minnesota Edina.