Obituary: Betty Lou Gross Riter, 81, of Springtown

Betty Lou Gross Riter, 81, of Springtown, Springfield Township passed away Friday, Jan. 25, 2013. She was the loving wife of Edward W. Riter. She was born in Fountain Hill, Pa., and was the daughter of the late James E. Gross and Elizabeth L. (Werner) Gross. A graduate of Liberty High School and St. Luke’s Hospital School of Nursing, Betty went on to work as a dedicated Registered Nurse at both St. Luke's and Muhlenberg hospitals. Betty was a past president of the Springfield Township Historical Society and an editor of the society's newsletter for over 25 years. She also was a member of the Historic Commission of Springfield Township, Bucks County, serving as secretary for many years. Betty had a passion for genealogy. She helped many people research their family histories over the years.

SURVIVORS

In addition to her husband, Betty is survived by son, Arthur and wife MaryBeth of Macungie; daughters Gloria, of Bethlehem; Karen and husband Tom of Tampa, Fla.; Melanie and husband Dan of Portland, Oregon; grandchildren Keith, Rebecca, Zachary, Joshua and Ben; sister, Gail Kratzer, of Salisbury Township; and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Betty will be greatly missed by her dear friends from the nursing and historical society communities. She was predeceased by son, David, and four brothers, James, Austin, Donald and Thomas.

SERVICE

Pastor Jerel Gade will officiate a graveside service at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Springfield Township at 1pm on Tuesday, Jan. 29, 2013.

CONTRIBUTIONS

In lieu of flowers, Betty has requested that memorials be made to St. Peter's Union Church, 7863 Saint Peter's Road, Macungie, PA 18062. Online expressions of sympathy can be recorded at www.heintzelmancares.com.