Thomas Martin Ritter

Thomas Martin Ritter, known to most as “Tom”, of St. Clair, MO departed this life at home in St. Clair, MO on Monday, July 21, 2025, having reached the age of eighty-seven years, and twenty-two days. Thomas was born in St. Clair, MO June 29, 1938, son of Arthur Bernard Ritter and Viola Anna Ritter nee Christen. Tom is survived by his son, Martin Ritter of Sullivan, MO; by three daughters, Lori Ritter of St. Clair, MO, Teresa Ritter of Edmonds, WA, and Michelle Ritter and husband, Kevin Reed of Edmonds, WA; by his daughter-in-law Amy Weida of St. Clair, MO; by six grandchildren, Jade Walther, Kindra Ritter, Osborne Niggli, Jasper Niggli, Reyna Marquez and Ruby Marquez; by two great grandchildren, Lainey and Mia Walther; by one brother, Jerome Ritter of St. Clair, MO; by one sister-in-law, Georgia Ritter of Washington, MO; by six step-children, many step-grandchildren, many step-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great and great-great-nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. Tom was proceeded in death by his parents, Arthur and Viola Ritter; by his wife, Edith Ritter; former wife, Judith Darden nee Henderson; by four brother, Bernard, Jack, Arthur J. and Daniel Ritter; by his sister, Patricia Hoffmeister. Tom, a beloved pillar of his community, passed away leaving behind a legacy of passion and dedication. Raised in the Catholic faith, Tom lived a life driven by his love for speed, craftsmanship, and connecting with people. As the proud owner of Tom’s Automotive Center since 1967, he faithfully served generations of customers—some for more than 50 years. His passion for restoring classic cars was rooted in his youth, where it all began with soapbox racing, motocross, and demolition derbies. He was known as a master engine builder and one of the first in the community to work on foreign cars. A proud member of the Route 66 Car Club, Tom’s enthusiasm for all things automotive was infectious, drawing friends, neighbors, and fellow car lovers to his shop, where he spent his later years sharing stories, wisdom, offering advice, and mentoring others. Beyond the garage, Tom was an avid reader and animal lover who cherished time with his family. He especially enjoyed family gatherings, where he delighted in showering his children and grandchildren with love and affection. Tom’s adventurous spirit, sense of humor, kind heart, and enduring presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Memorial Visitation will be held from 12:00pm-2:00pm Saturday, August 23, 2025 at Russell Colonial Funeral Home in St. Clair, MO with a Funeral Service at 2:00pm followed by a classic car cruise to the American Legion Hall at 215 W Gravois Ave, St Clair, MO 63077 for a Celebration of Life from 3pm-7pm. In lieu of Flowers memorials may be made to Tom Ritter Scholarship C/O ECC Foundation P.O. Box 387 Union, MO. 63084

Thomas Martin Ritter

June 29, 1938 - July 21, 2025