James F. 'Jim' Ritzenthaler

SANDUSKY — James F. "Jim" Ritzenthaler, 97, of Sandusky, passed away peacefully early Monday morning, Dec. 26, 2016, in Providence Care Center, Sandusky.Born Jan. 31, 1919, in St. Mary's, Ohio, he was the son of Franklin James and Gertrude Agnes (Lawler) Ritzenthaler. He was a 1937 graduate of St. Mary's High School. Jim was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Army with the 121st Coast Artillery Battalion. Years ago, he worked at the Sandusky Paint Co. and later went on to work at Hinde & Dauch, later known as Westvaco, for over 30 years before retiring.He enjoyed hunting, fishing and was an avid gardener; he truly loved tending to his roses. His family will remember him mostly for his beautiful singing voice; having studied voice under Alma Rogers, he sang in operas and had solos at his church. Jim was proud of the fact that he had built the home his family had lived in for many years. He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church.Jim is survived by his wife of 73 years, Dolores M. (Reed) Ritzenthaler, whom he married on Nov. 25, 1943; his son, Philip (Carol) Ritzenthaler of Powell; a daughter, Beth L. Beatty of Huron; two grandchildren, Shawn and Andrew; five great-grandchildren; and a sister, Jane Vavra of Jamestown, N.Y.He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother in infancy, Paul John Ritzenthaler; and a sister, Dr. Jeannette Ritzenthaler.Visitation will be from 9:15 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, until time of the Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 429 Central Ave., Sandusky. Father Matt Frisbee will officiate. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Sandusky.The family suggests memorial contributions may be made in his memory to St. Mary's Catholic Church, 429 Central Ave., Sandusky, OH 44870; or to the Sandusky Central Catholic School Education Foundation, 410 W. Jefferson St., Sandusky, OH 44870.Arrangements are entrusted to David F. Koch Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 520 Columbus Ave., Sandusky.Your memories and words of comfort may be shared with Jim's family at davidfkoch.com.