Marilyn Ritter, age 84, of Oskaloosa, Iowa, passed away surrounded by her loving family at her home in Oskaloosa, under hospice care. She was born on January 3, 1942, in Albia, Iowa, the daughter of Robert and Margorie (Morgan) McMurray. She attended Twin Cedars High School and graduated with the Class of 1960. She was united in marriage to Ron Messamaker in 1960. Years later, they divorced. In 1967, she was united in marriage to Jay Galvin. She and Jay later divorced. On September 4, 1987, she was united to Charles Ritter in Oskaloosa. Charles passed away in 2016. Marilyn rekindled her relationship with Jay in 2022.
Marilyn worked at the overall factory in Pella for several years. After earning her nursing degree, she worked for several nursing homes around the area. Later, she worked at the county shelter for 20 plus years until going to work at White Oak Estates as a medication manager until her retirement. A few years after retirement, she went back to work as part-time help. Marilyn enjoyed shopping, thrifting, attending bluegrass festivals, camping and spending time with her grandchildren. She was an active member of the Omega Church in Oskaloosa.
She is survived by her life partner, Jay Galvin; her children, Gerrit Messamaker and Kevin McMurray; her grandchildren, Belinda Burke, Cody Messamaker, Ronald Messamaker, Russell, Messamaker, Julie Messamaker, Miranda Hansen, Laci Messamaker, Levi (Madeline) Messamaker, John Nicholson and Nick Firch; 20 great grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild; her siblings, Katherine DeHaven, Carol Rutherford, Vicki Forest and Ron (Jill) McMurray. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Marilyn is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Charles Ritter; a son and his wife, Bill and Kim Messamaker; a twin sister-in-infancy; a brother and his wife, Keith and Susan McMurray and a sister-in-law, Barb McMurray.
As was her wish, cremation will take place and the family is planning a celebration of life will be held October 24, 4:30 p.m. at the Omega Church in Oskaloosa with pastor Cyril McKay officiating. The Bates Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made to the family.
