Linda L. Ritzert's Obituary
Linda L. Ritzert (née Marshall), 84, of Lorain, Ohio, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2026, surrounded by her loving family at Lorain New Life Hospice.
Born September 12, 1941, in Columbus, Ohio, to the late George W. and Margaret C. (Konrad) Marshall, Linda moved to Lorain as a small child and made it her lifelong home. It was in Lorain that she raised her daughter (Kim), built lasting friendships, and established deep roots within the community she so dearly loved.
In the late 1960s, Linda and her former husband, Charles Plato, owned and operated Plato’s Poodle Palace where her deep love of dogs began. She later worked as a secretary for Lorain Music and Vending and served as Catering Manager for Harry’s Restaurant before joining the Lorain Port Authority as Associate Director. There, she played a pivotal role in founding the Lorain Lighthouse Foundation, helping to preserve one of the city’s most cherished and historic landmarks.
In 1995, she married Carl Ritzert and moved to Bonita Springs, Florida. During her 25 years there, Linda built a successful career as an interior decorator. She was an active and enthusiastic member of the Bonita Springs Chamber of Commerce and dedicated much of her time to Lamb of God Lutheran Church, where she served on numerous committees. Following her years in Florida, Linda returned to Lorain to be closer to her family.
One of Linda’s proudest accomplishments was serving as the 1992 Ohio Governor for Quota Club International, a service organization devoted to supporting women, children, and individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. Her commitment to service was widely recognized—she was honored with Quota’s Women of Achievement Award in 1989 and Woman of the Year Award in 1990.
Above all, Linda will be remembered for her deep love of family, her vibrant spirit, and her unwavering dedication to others. She found her greatest joy in time spent with loved ones—whether hosting gatherings, sharing laughter, or simply being present for life’s everyday moments. Her kindness, warmth, and generous heart made everyone feel welcome and valued.
Linda was a devoted and active member of her community, always ready to lend a helping hand or give her time to meaningful causes. Her life was a reflection of compassion, connection, and service.
She was also known for her strong work ethic and determination. Linda approached every role in her life with pride, integrity, and perseverance, setting an example for those around her. Whether in her professional pursuits or personal life, she believed in doing things wholeheartedly and with purpose.
Linda was preceded in death by her parents, George and Margaret Marshall; her husband, Carl Ritzert; and her twin brother, Larry C. Marshall Sr.
She is survived by her beloved daughter, Kim Plato Merkle (Chris); her fiancé, Jerry Goodwill, and his cherished four-legged “daughter,” Cookie; her step-grandson, Josh Merkle (Molly); great-grandchildren Jamie and Cameron; and countless nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly.
Family and friends will remember Linda for her generous spirit, her joyful laugh, her sense of style, and her steadfast devotion to the people and causes she loved.
Visitation will be held Monday, May 18, 2026, from 4–7 PM at Dovin & Reber Jones Funeral and Cremation Center, 1110 Cooper Foster Park Road, Amherst, Ohio 44001. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 2 PM at the funeral home. Private interment will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Linda’s memory to First Lutheran Church, 1019 W. 5th St., Lorain, Ohio 44052, or to The Lorain Lighthouse Foundation, 319 Black River Lane, Lorain, Ohio 44052.
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