Richard "Dick" Ritz, 84, of Midland, passed away on Thursday, February 21, 2008, in Midland. Memorial services will be held at 3:00 PM Saturday, February 23, 2008 at the Manor Park Chapel in Midland with Rev. Robert Barndt, officiating.Richard was born July 21, 1923, in Reading, Pennsylvania to Helen and Edwin Ritz. He married Nancy Shaw February 28, 1953 in Carlsbad, New Mexico.Richard grew up in Reading, Pennsylvania, also graduating from high school there. When he was 18 years old in 1941, he joined the Army Air Corps. He served in the European Theatre based in England, France and Germany. After his discharge in 1945, Richard went to work for Phillips Petroleum where he worked for 39 years until his retirement. During his career he and Nancy lived in Hobbs, Odessa and Oklahoma City. They moved to Midland in 2002. He loved West Texas and called it his home. Richard's family was first and foremost in his life. He was a member of the Lutheran Church.Survivors include wife, Nancy of Midland; son and daughter-in-law, Reis and Paula Ritz of Midland; daughter and son-in-law, Rhonda and Jeff Marcks of Austin; grandchildren, Captain Brandon Ritz, M.D. of Harker Heights, Chas Gauthier of Midland, Lacy Connally of New Braunfels, Russell Marcks of Fort Worth, Aaron Marcks, Keith Marcks and Scott Marcks, all of Austin. He was preceded in death by his parents, 5 sisters and 2 brothers.Memorials may be made to the Younger Center at Manor Park, 2208 N Loop 250 West, Midland, TX 79707 or Home Hospice, 901 W Missouri AVE, Midland, TX 79701.The family would like to thank all of those who cared for him and especially the love and devotion shown to Richard by the staff of Manor Park, the Younger Center and Home Hospice.Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences can be made at: www.npwelch.com,
