Tom Ritzer

Thomas Arthur Ritzer, the son of Violet (Baker) and Arthur Ritzer, was born October 21, 1941 in Sioux City, Iowa. After graduating high school, Tom served in the United States Navy and was in the "Bay of Pigs" during the Cuban Conflict. He also was a boxer during his navy years until his honorable discharge in 1962. He remained in the Naval Reserves until 1965. On November 23, 1963, Tom was united in marriage to Karen (Taylor) Ritzer in South Sioux City, Nebraska. After they were married, they moved to Arnolds Park, Iowa where he was licensed and worked as a master plumber for over fifty-five years. He owned and operated Tom's Plumbing and Heating and was also the inventor of the Rit-z closet seat. Tom was a member of Pheasants Forever, bowling leagues, PHCC, served as Chief of Police in Arnolds Park in the late 1960's and early 1970's and established the first pizza parlor in Arnolds Park, "Tom & Al's Pizza Corner" in the 70's. Tom was a fisherman, loved on the "pond" fishing and telling fishing stories and adventures with his fishing buddies. He loved animals, being outdoors and spending time with his family and friends. In his earlier years, he enjoyed bowling and later began playing cards with his good friends. As his health began to decline, he really missed that camaraderie. He will be missed by many as he had great influence on so many lives throughout the years. Tom passed away January 6, 2018 at his home in Arnolds Park at seventy-six years of age. He is survived by his wife, Karen Ritzer; son, Carl White of Tallahassee, Florida; son, Rob (Grace) Ritzer of Arnolds Park; daughter, Kristina (Tina) Ritzer of Arnolds Park and daughter, Teresa Jones of Lake Park; five grandchildren, Nicholas, Cynthia, Brenna, Kaitlin and Alexis; numerous nieces, nephews and sisters-in-law. Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Violet Ritzer; four brothers, Larry, Richard, Robert and James; one sister, Sharon (Ritzer) Rider; nephew, Cory Ritzer. At Tom's request and explicit instructions, there will be no formal services for him. Remember Tom as you interacted with him. Cards may be sent to Tom's Plumbing and Heating, PO Box 496, Arnolds Park, Iowa, 51331.