Robert John "Bob" Rittmueller, cherished husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed away on August 13th, 2023, at his residence in Haslet, TX.
Bob was welcomed into this world on November 30, 1946, in Melrose Park, IL, by Adolph Henry and Alma Olga (Voigt) Rittmueller. Bob's life journey, colored by his vibrant personality and steadfast dedication to family, was one filled with both passion and purpose.
Before his well-earned retirement, Bob served as a Respiratory Therapist, initially at the former Walls Regional Hospital in Cleburne, TX, followed by a significant tenure of 24 years at Cook Children's Hospital in Fort Worth. He specialized in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and also played a pivotal role as a CPR instructor. Bob's commitment to his pediatric patients was evident, not just in the quality of care he provided but in the little joys he brought to the unit, notably by mimicking Donald Duck's voice to lighten the hearts of both patients and their families.
Outside the professional realm, Bob was an avid golfer and a dedicated fisherman. Many a memory was made on the serene waters of Sitka, Alaska, where Bob, along with his brothers, sons, and close friends, reeled in tales of the day's biggest catch. Closer to home, the banks of the Brazos River held stories of adventurous canoeing and fishing escapades with his sons, passing down not just skills, but a legacy of love and bonding.
In his youth, Bob answered the call of duty, drafted for the Vietnam War. However, an injury took him on a different path, leading him to serve as a photographer for ID pictures, showcasing Bob's unwavering commitment to his country.
Bob's greatest pride and joy stemmed from his family. He was a devoted husband to Sherian Rittmueller for 44 remarkable years. As a father, he beamed with pride for his sons and their families: Ryan Rittmueller with wife, Jessica, and children, Dean and Anna of Haslet, TX, and Eric Rittmueller with wife, Morgan of Argyle, TX. His role as "POPS" to his grandchildren was one he held close to his heart and loved to flaunt by proudly and ecstatically wearing a "POPS" t-shirt or hat to every family gathering.
Bob's legacy is also carried forward by his siblings: brothers Phillip Rittmueller and family of Youngsville, NC; Paul Rittmueller and family of Grove, OK; Jon "Pete" Rittmueller and family of Bellingham, WA; and sister Maureen Delassus and family of Ft. Wayne, IN. His nieces, nephews, and a close-knit circle of friends, whom he held dear, also mourn his loss.
A memorial service to celebrate Bob's remarkable life will be held on Sunday, August 20th, 2023, at 1:00 PM at Lucas Funeral Home, 1601 S. Main Street, Keller, TX, 76248. Following the service, a private burial will take place at the Pleasant Valley Family Cemetery, Cedar Hill, TX.
The family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Bob's memory may consider donations to First Tee-Fort Worth — a testament to his love for golf and his passion for working with children.
Donations can be made here.