Marilyn Mulkins Ritter was born December 16, 1945.  At 9-months she contracted polio and as a consequence, she grew up wearing a brace on her leg.  Because of this, she was teased, but handled it well and grew into a strong, determined young woman.  She was gifted with a bright mind and graduated from South Gate High School at 16, entered Cal State University Long Beach and became a teacher.  She taught Math, Spanish and Speech, subbed at Ball Junior High School in Anaheim and worked with a home schooling agency. 

Marilyn and her husband, Don Ritter (S’63), went together off and on since they were in their 20’s but married at 38 and were happily married for 31 years.  Don noted that Marilyn was the “World’s Greatest Traveler,’’ very adventurous and fun!  She always looked very young and had strong Irish traits!  They lived in Southern California for some time but eventually moved to Crescent City, California and loved living in a “Rainforest!” 

Marilyn was an active Jehovah’s Witness and went out often to introduce people to her Lord.  She loved life, her husband, traveling and playing cards.  She maintained strong friendships from Junior High on with Charles and Jackie Goss Smith. 

Marilyn’s mind was always sharp as a tack, even when she became ill with various complications and was unable to be cared for at home.  She died peacefully with her husband at her side in May, 2016.  She will be dearly missed by her husband and dear friends.