Karen L. Ritchie

Karen L. Ritchie of Cuyahoga Falls died Feb. 25 of complications from pulmonary hypertension. She was 75. She was a lover of life, family, fun and stray animals. Karen rooted for the Browns and Indians, no matter what. She was an antique enthusiast, particularly interested in Fostoria glass. She loved NASCAR and tooling around in their ‘63 Corvair. Her many spoiled cats and dogs through the years were lucky to have her. She was proud of her Hungarian and German roots, particularly the cuisine.

Karen’s most precious times were spent in the company of the love of her life, Robert Ritchie, with whom she recently celebrated 30 years of marriage. The eldest child of the late Gerald and Cecilia Knapp, she was born in Akron, raised in Tallmadge, graduated from Tallmadge High and worked in the Circle as a dispatcher when the police headquarters were there. She lived her entire life in the Akron area. She attended Hammel-Actual Business College and retired from Banc One as executive assistant to the board chair. 

She is survived by her husband, Robert; her only son, Steve Beatty (Lynn Chao); her brother Gerald Peter Knapp (Tammy); her sisters Gail Panner (Robert) and Kim Derrenberger (Jeff); stepchildren James Jon Ritchie (Susan), Patrick Ritchie (Jonna) and Kelly Barnes (Evan); and many beloved grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visiting hours for family and friends will be April 23 at 3pm to 5 pm and a 5 pm memorial service. at Clifford-Shoemaker Funeral Home on Front Street in Cuyahoga Falls. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a no-kill animal shelter or rescue. Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.cliffordshoemaker.com.