Lois Ritter Obituary
Lois A. Ritter (Jesten), age 71, passed away on Monday, January 19, 2026, at Sanford Hospital in Fargo, North Dakota.
Lois was born on March 15, 1954, in Moorhead, Minnesota, to George Jesten and Gloria (Peterson) Larson. She graduated from North High School in Fargo in 1972 and later earned an associate degree in Human Resources.
On December 27, 1974, Lois married Chuck Ritter. Although the marriage later ended in divorce in 1979, together they were blessed with three children: Shawn (1976), Brianna (1977), and Travis (1978).
Lois worked in Human Resources at Eventide Nursing Home. She lived life independently and with spunk. A devoted Catholic, Lois volunteered her time through the Adopt-A-Senior program, where she visited schools to read with children.
In her free time, Lois enjoyed diamond art, spending time visiting and talking with friends and family, and going for walks. Above all, she cherished time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy.
Lois was preceded in death by her parents, George Jesten and Gloria Larson; her sister Pamela Schwan; her brother Pete Jesten; son-in-law Brian Michael Breitbarth; great-grandson Gabriel; and her beloved dog, Little Bit.
She is survived by her sisters: Terry Fischer, Carole Harris, Patty Jesten, and brother Dan Dimock; her three children and their spouses; 11 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren, along with other relatives and friends who will miss her dearly.
The family will have a service for her at a later time.
West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center
West Fargo, ND 58078
westfuneralhome.com
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2 Entries
Sierra Flammond
February 1, 2026
I had the pleasure and absolute joy of getting to know Lois through my job as a caregiver & then had the pleasure of having her as a patient in the hospital. Lois and I had so much fun together. We shared so many laughs and fun times during our outings and trips to Sickies for a monte cristo or to Walmart for some groceries for Lois´ many recipes, or even the thrift store to find some goodies. Lois was such a joy to be around and spend time with. I´m so glad I got to have her in my life, even if for just a couple short years. I already miss her so much. My prayers, love and light to her family & close friends during this time. Lois always spoke so wonderfully of you all. I´m so glad I got to hear her stories
-Sierra ;Vibra Hospital
former DSP at CCRI
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Lyn Flieth
January 27, 2026
My deepest sympathies to the family and friends who loved her so deeply. I will forever cherish every moment and memory she has left me with. My best friend of 58 years has given me a lifetime of love, happiness and endless memories that will forever remain with me. I loved you so very deeply my dear friend (sister).
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321 Sheyenne Street, West Fargo, ND 58078
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