Joyce Ritzenthaler

Joyce M. Ritzenthaler, (née Wolter), 78, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 12, 2023, at her home, surrounded by her family. She was born on Feb. 25, 1945, in Loyal, to Daniel and Nina (née Castner) Wolter. Joyce graduated from Loyal High School in 1963 and UW-Stevens Point in 1967. She taught in the Milwaukee Public School District after graduation. She then married the love of her life, Chuck Ritzenthaler, in 1968. Once becoming a mom, she put her own career on hold to raise four beautiful children. Joyce had a passion for quilting, knitting, gardening, painting, reading and writing. Her greatest joy was spending time with family and friends. Great memories were made traveling and playing games, as well as attending theatre and music events. Joyce gave generously to the mission of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church. She actively participated in the quilting ministry, Bible study and altar guild, while touching many with her wit and humor.

Joyce is survived by her four children: Greg (girlfriend, Patty Zernia) Ritzenthaler, Jenny (Mark) Ehr, Sarah (Bryon) Prey and Maria Ritzenthaler (Sam Krahn); grandchildren: Hailey, Brett and Bryce Ehr, Cael and Chloe Prey; sisters: Diana Schuette and Brenda Echeverria; siblings-in-law, Dave (Carol) Ritzenthaler, Don (Linda) Ritzenthaler, Ken (Braketta) Ritzenthaler and Tom and (Crystal) Ritzenthaler. She is further survived by many relatives and friends.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, David Wolter; her sister, Beverly Crowley; siblings-in-law, Dick Ritzenthaler, Sheree Ritzenthaler, Jerry and Marlene Natvick, Terry Crowley, Eldred Schuette and Rual Echeverria; her nephew, Jim Crowley; and her niece, Tara Ritzenthaler.

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 12-1:45 p.m. on Sunday, March 19, 2023, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church (1044 S Silverbrook Dr. West Bend, WI 53095). A funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. with Pastor Jim Hearne presiding.

A special thank you to Pastor Jim and countless family and friends. The Phillip Funeral Home, West Bend, is assisting the family.

PAID OBITUARY 133638