Shane Ritter

Shane Russell Ritter was born in Portsmith, VA, on February 4, 1972. Shane was one of a kind – a man who lived life with passion, humor, and a deep love for those around him. On September 7, 2024, Shane took his final road trip, and while we miss him more than words can express, we take comfort in knowing he’s revving up his engine in the big highway in the sky.

One of Shane’s greatest love – after family and friends, of course – was his beloved ’69 Camaro SS. Always a walking contradiction, Shane pampered the paint but burned the rubber, and whenever he was behind the wheel, you could hear his music from blocks away -windows down, volume cranked up. Whether it was classic rock, old-school hits, Shane believed that music was meant to be felt as much as heard.

Shane had a heart as big as his lopsided smile and a sense of humor to match. He was the kind of guy who could talk for hours – whether it was about life, cars, or one of his legendary stories. He loved a good conversation, often getting so caught up in his tales that you’d lose track of time but never lose interest.

Rarely did he end a conversation with just a goodbye, he’d remind you that you were loved, and then toss in a final remark, like asking his sister to give her husband a big wet kiss and say it was from him.

To say he will be missed is an understatement. Shane brought so much joy, humor, and light into the lives of everyone who knew him. He lived fully, laughed heartily, and loved deeply. In honor of Shane, let’s all take a moment to appreciate our own journeys – and maybe give our cars a little extra love. Because if Shane taught us anything, it’s that life is about the ride, the laughs along the way, and the people you share it with

Preceded in death by grandparents, Russ and Virginia Ritter, Dick Blink and Ken Meyers; uncles, Rick Ritter, Tom Meyers, and Steve Blink and step father, Paul Brisbane.

Survivors include his father Reg (Sonja), mother Judy; domestic partner Jen Koerperich; grandmother Eva Blink; daughter, Paige; son Brice (Jessica); three grandchildren, Sylee, Riley and Ridley Ritter; sister Hope (Nate); half-sister, Autumn; Inez Ritter; nephew Jessie; niece Lana; step siblings, Bill, Kathy, Pat and Liz; several cousins, aunts and uncles; longtime friend Kim, her children and grandchildren; Joy, her children and grandchildren and Gina Ritter, mother of Paige and Brice.

Shane will be cremated, and ashes scattered at a different time. We love you, Shane. Keep the engine running for us until we meet again.