Harry "Skip" Louis Ritchart

     Harry Louis “Skip” Ritchart, the son of Harry and Jimmie Ritchart was born November 7, 1947 in Orlando FL. Skip’s childhood was spent in Mallard, IA, until moving to Spencer, IA his junior year. He was baptized and confirmed member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Mallard. Skip enlisted in the US Army in 1966 and served in Vietnam until returning from the war in a full body cast with serious injuries taking many years to recover. Skip was honorably discharged in 1969.

     Skip married Bertha Ann Nelson on April 10, 1974 In Spencer, IA. They moved to the Royal, IA area where they made their home for 45 years until his death. He enjoyed working on the farm as well as driving truck, moving agricultural products down the road.
Skip was a member of the Royal Fire Department, Royal Lion’s club and a lifetime member of Vietnam Veterans of America’s Chapter 888. He was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Royal, serving on the church council until moving his membership to First English Lutheran Church in Spencer.

     Skip was a Lincoln Lions 4H leader for several years. He enjoyed the Clay County Fair, whether working with 4H activities or volunteering at the Train Depot helping to keep the trains up and running. Skip enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, and watching Nascar. He especially loved attending his grandchildren’s activities from sports to FFA and 4H. He loved spending time with people and sharing stories.

     Skip passed away Saturday, October 12, 2019 at Sanford hospital in Sioux Falls S.D. at the age of 71. He is preceded in death by his mother Jimmie.

    Left to cherish his memory are his wife Ann of Royal; 2 children Jennifer Findling of Royal and Harry William Ritchart (Kara) of Royal; 2 daughters from a previous Marriage Ona (Jeff) Johnson of Harrison, NE and Ami Steffen (Jay) of Sibley, IA; 14 Grandchildren; 5 Great-Grandchildren; His father Harry of Ruthven, IA; other relatives; and many friends.

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