Stephen Ritz Obituary

Ritz, Stephen Mark age 44, passed away February 13, 2007 of respiratory failure, a complication from treatment of a childhood cancer. Steve was born August 23, 1962 in Midland, Michigan. He was an attorney and chief financial officer and legal counsel for Ritz Communications, a public relations agency he established with his sister. Previously, Steve was president of Newport Pension Management, managing its operations and growth until selling the company. He began his career as an attorney at the Chicago law firm, Chapman and Cutler. Steve earned a bachelor's degree in biology from Northwestern University and did post-graduate work in the field of molecular biology; his work was published in scientific journals, including The Journal of Neuroscience. He earned his law degree, with honors, from Indiana University. Steve enjoyed many personal and professional achievements. He was an Eagle Scout and for more than 30 years enjoyed training and showing Golden Retrievers. He was past president of both the Northwestern Club of Indianapolis and the Indiana Association of Financial Planners. His kindness and generosity, demonstrated by his numerous volunteer activities, touched the lives of many. He is survived by his parents, Alvin and Patricia Ritz of Carmel, Indiana, and his sister, Elisabeth of Chicago, as well as many loving relatives and friends. A memorial service in celebration of Steve's life will be held at 11 am on Saturday, February 24 at Woodstock Club, 1301 W. 38th St, Indianapolis, Indiana. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Little Red Door Cancer Agency, 1801 N. Meridian, Indianapolis, IN 46202 or Children's Memorial Hospital Foundation-Hematology/Oncology Fund 2300 Children's Plaza, Box 4, Chicago, Illinois 60614 or a charity of the donor's choice. Local arrangements were handled by Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home, 44 S. Mill St., Naperville, IL 60540. Info: 630-355-0213 or friedrich-jones.com.