In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Irene Marie (Stephens) Ritz and his sister Delores K. Robbins of Dunnellon, FL.
Murray lived life to its fullest. He had a strong Christian faith; a kind, patient and giving spirit and was an inspiration to many. He was a member of the Stelvideo Christian Church where he was a deacon and held many positions within the church over the years. He was a 1944 graduate of Jackson Schools. Murray served in the Army/Air Corp during World War II and was blessed to be a part of the Honor Flight to Washington D.C. in 2012. Murray enjoyed music and played in the Army band as well as several local bands. He was a farmer and self-employed painter and wallpaper hanger. He was also a talented woodworker. Murray liked to share his love for home-made ice cream with his family and friends.
Murray loved his family and is survived by his children: Steve (Lorraine) Ritz of Gainesville FL, Chris of Greenville, Kathy (Jon) Perreira of Piqua; Karen (David) Bloomfield of Greenville; and Kim (Craig) Schmidt of Greenville. Grandchildren: Ben (Kelly) Perreira; Abby (Brad) Trostel; Dan Perreira; Nick Schmidt; Jessica Thompson; four great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Gene Robbins; and nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 7th at 4:00 p.m at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville with Pastor Vernon Rodeffer officiating. Family will receive friends prior to the service, from 2-4 p.m. A private graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Stelvideo Christian Church or State of the Heart Hospice.
Condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com
