Gail C. Ritteman

Gail C. Ritteman, age 89, resident of Lakota, ND, died Saturday, July 17, 2021 surrounded by family at the Good Samaritan Society in Lakota.

Gail Carrene Walden was born on August 24, 1931 in Edmore, ND to parents Olvin and Inga (Olson) Walden, and was the third of 5 daughters. Gail was raised and educated in Edmore, and worked various jobs throughout her younger years. On March 28, 1950, at age 18, she married Edward T. Ritteman in Lakota. Gail remained in Lakota for the rest of her years, raising three sons and caring for Ed as he grew ill years later, passing away on December 15, 1993. Gail had numerous friends and stayed busy working a range of jobs, including housekeeping, painting, and preparing meals at the Gronna Home in Lakota. She also provided years of loving childcare for her grandchildren in her home, and made the best cream of wheat and homemade mac-n-cheese a child could want. She worked for the Good Samaritan Society for many years as CNA, Housekeeper and Dietary Aid.  Gail loved music and dancing, especially with friends and family at the Elks in Devils Lake. She valued fashion and current trends, and always enjoyed looking her best. She was an avid reader, and boasted an impressive collection of bells from all over the world. Gail had a close relationship with religion, and was a member of the Lakota Lutheran Church, as well as the American Legion Auxiliary.  She was known for sending homemade and humorous cards. “Grama” Gail will be especially remembered for her quick sense of humor and infectious laugh.

She will be missed by her three sons, Michael (Cindy), Jerry (Cindy), and Jeff (Cindy), all of Lakota; six grandchildren; six great grandchildren, and one expected next winter; two sisters, Del Johnson of Ft. Dodge, IA and Grace Sateren of Lakota; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Edward; two sisters, Joyce Schwab and Faye Beaudoin; and two infant twin brothers.

A family service will be held at the Aaker Funeral Home of Lakota on Monday, July 26, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be at the Lakota Cemetery with a reception to follow at the American Legion Club in Lakota.

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