Barbara Ritz

Mom was born in Trinidad, CO, to Agnes (Peggy) and Francis O’Rourke. She grew up in Walsenburg, CO, alongside her older sister, Agnes, and younger sister, Mary. After graduating from St. Mary’s High School, she attended Mount Saint Scholastica College in Atchison, Kansas, where she earned her degree in Biology. She then worked as a medical technologist at the State Hospital in Pueblo.

In May of 1957, she married Richard Ritz (deceased), whom she always called the love of her life. Together, they were deeply loving parents to Kathy (deceased), George, Sharon (Rob), and Dee. She was also a devoted grandmother to David (Megan) and Ian (Ash), Kai and Meade and the best "GG" to her great-granddaughter, Nisa.

Mom was a woman of great faith, quiet courage, and the kindest heart we will ever know. Her family was the most important gift of her life, and we will miss her always.

Her funeral service will be held on Wednesday July 22, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Littleton, where she has been a member since 1963. The rosary will be recited at 1030, with Mass following at 11:15. A reception will follow the Mass in the lower level of the church and burial will take place at Littleton Cemetery following the reception.

In lieu of flowers, we invite you to make a donation to Humane Colorado (humanecolorado.org), celebrating her lifelong love of dogs, or to the National MS Society (nationalmssociety.org) in support of their vital work.