Ilona A. Rittler

I met Ilona in 1962. Previlaged to study with her. She showed me a creative attitude and to see into the shadows, in painting and in life. Thanks always in all ways. Love A

I was so privileged to get to study and paint under Ilona's expert guidance. She had a marvelous way of bringing out an individual's unique talent... I spent many happy hours painting under her care...What an inspiration she was to all of those who loved her.

I was deeply saddened by Ilona's death, my teacher for more than seven years and my friend ever since, we shared so much...

I feel richer for knowing Ilona, the extraordinary woman who left her mark in my heart, my paintings and my thoughts, she will be remembered with love and pride.

Please accept my deepest sympathy on your loss. You have my heartfelt condolences.

I was fortunate to know Ilona and attend her classes for a few years. She gave me the everlasting gift of creating art and I feel so lucky to have known her. I will always appreciate her spirit and graciousness.

Ilona was an amazing person. I only had the opportunity to take classes from her for a few months in 2010, soon after moving to Bellevue. She truly cared about her students, and had a passion for life lacking in many people a third of her age. She was inspirational, and will be missed.
Veena (Bellevue, WA)

I was extremely saddened to hear of the passing of Ilona. She was my art teacher from the time that I was a young teenager until my late twenties. I count it my privilege to have known her. She was has been my mentor and inspiration. I thought of her often through the years. Ilona has had such a profound influence on my life. Her passion and zeal for life was infectious. She was much loved by everyone who knew her. She will be forever missed.

5/6/12

I will always remember not only the painting instructions, but also the life lessons she would try to teach me as I was painting.

What a wonderful person!

Becky and Gene Goodenough

Ilona was my wife Mary's teacher, mentor and friend for 40 years. Mary would go to her studio at least once a week to work on her oils and help teach others. Ilona's inspiration spread to my entire family and many friends who now have beautiful paintings that Mary created. Ilona and her kind soul will always exist with us and through Mary's paintings inspire our future generations to appreciate and create beautiful art.

My dad, who passed away in late December, 2010 at the age of 88, took art classes from Ilona for several years after my mother passed away. Those were his best paintings! Ilona even attended his 80th birthday party! She was the most beautiful lady with such an amazing talent! She will be missed by all who knew her!