Thomas M. Ritter

Thomas Martin Ritter, 87, known to most as ?Tom,? St. Clair, departed this life at home, Monday, July 21, 2025.

Thomas, son of Arthur Bernard Ritter and Viola Anna Ritter, nee Christen, was born in St. Clair, June 29, 1938.

Tom is survived by his son, Martin Ritter, Sullivan; three daughters, Lori Ritter, St. Clair, Teresa Ritter, and Michelle Ritter and husband, Kevin Reed, all of Edmonds, Washington; his daughter-in-law Amy Weida, St. Clair; six grandchildren, Jade Walther, Kindra Ritter, Osborne Niggli, Jasper Niggli, Reyna Marquez and Ruby Marquez; two great-grandchildren, Lainey and Mia Walther; by one brother, Jerome Ritter, St. Clair; one sister-in-law, Georgia Ritter, Washington, Missouri; six step-children; many step-grandchildren; many step-great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; great- and great-great-nieces and nephews; cousins and friends.

Tom was proceeded in death by his parents, Arthur and Viola Ritter; by his wife, Edith Ritter; former wife, Judith Darden, nee Henderson; four brothers, Bernard, Jack, Arthur J. and Daniel Ritter; and one sister, Patricia Hoffmeister.

Tom, a beloved pillar of his community, passed away leaving behind a legacy of passion and dedication.

Raised in the Catholic faith, Tom lived a life driven by his love for speed, craftsmanship, and connecting with people. As the proud owner of Tom's Automotive Center since 1967, he faithfully served generations of customers, some for more than 50 years.

His passion for restoring classic cars was rooted in his youth, where it all began with soapbox racing, motocross, and demolition derbies. He was known as a master engine builder and one of the first in the community to work on foreign cars. A proud member of the Route 66 Car Club, Tom's enthusiasm for all things automotive was infectious, drawing friends, neighbors, and fellow car lovers to his shop, where he spent his later years sharing stories, wisdom, offering advice, and mentoring others.

Beyond the garage, Tom was an avid reader and animal lover who cherished time with his family. He especially enjoyed family gatherings, where he delighted in showering his children and grandchildren with love and affection.

Tom's adventurous spirit, kind heart, and enduring presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Memorial visitation will be held from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, August 23, at Russell Colonial Funeral Home, St. Clair, with memorial service at 2 p.m., followed by a classic car cruise to the American Legion Hall at 215 W Gravois Ave., St Clair, MO 63077 for a Celebration of Life from 3 p.m.-7 p.m.

The Ritter family is being served by Russell Colonial Funeral Home, St. Clair.