Jules "Rob" Ritter

Jules (Rob) Russell Ritter, 74, of Tucson, Arizona, passed away on February 25, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and friends. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, friend, a proud veteran of the United States Army, and a man who made the most important jump of all - giving his life to the Lord.

 Rob enlisted in the United States Army in 1969, and at just 17 years old, he was deployed to Cambodia - a mission so controversial that the U.S. government didn't even acknowledge its involvement at the time. He was part of some of the most dangerous and highly classified operations of that era, stepping into the unknown with nothing but his training, courage, and commitment to his brothers-in-arms. While most teenagers were still figuring out their futures, Rob was already making sacrifices that many would never fully understand. He entered a conflict that was fought in the shadows, where survival depended on skill, instinct, and the unwavering bond between soldiers. He did not ask for recognition, nor did he hesitate - he simply answered the call.

 His military career was marked by skill, service, and an unwavering commitment to his fellow soldiers. From May 1988 to May 1994, he served with honor as a Senior Parachute Rigger and Military Freefall Jumpmaster in B Company, 2nd Battalion, 1st Special Warfare Training Group (Airborne) at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. With precision and expertise, he ensured that Special Operations soldiers were properly equipped for their missions, living by the words of the Rigger’s Creed—“I will be sure always.” His hands packed the parachutes that carried warriors into battle, and his leadership as a Jumpmaster guided them safely from the skies. His work was more than a duty; it was a promise - to his fellow soldiers, to his country, and to the standards he upheld.

 Throughout his service, Rob earned numerous awards and decorations, including:

 • Army Service Ribbon

• National Defense Service Medal w/ Bronze Service Star

• Army Good Conduct Medal (5th Award)

• Army Commendation Medal

• Army Achievement Medal (2 Oak Leaf Clusters)

• Parachute Rigger Badge

• Joint Service Achievement Medal

• Joint Service Commendation Medal

• Joint Meritorious Unit Award

• Master Parachutist Badge

• Canadian Parachutist Badge

• Polish Land Forces Parachutist Badge

 Beyond his military service, Rob found freedom, camaraderie, and purpose on the open road. As a proud member of American Legion Riders 109 in Arizona, he wasn’t just a man who rode - he was a rider to the core.

 Riding alongside Mary, Rob embraced every mile as an opportunity - to reflect, to remember, and to connect. Whether it was a ride to honor a fallen veteran, a weekend trip with friends, or a ride to one of his favorite places - Tombstone, Arizona - he never took a single ride for granted. The stories, the laughs, and the friendships built along the way were just as important as the destination.

 Kickstands up, throttle open, and always riding free - that was Rob.

Later in life, he made one final and most important jump - the leap of faith - giving his life to the Lord. His family takes comfort in knowing that he has now landed safely in the arms of his Savior, where he is finally at peace.

Rob is survived by his loving wife, Mary A. Ritter; his son, Anthony Haviland; his daughter, Nicole Knotts, and her husband, Travis Knotts; and his granddaughter, Aria Knotts.

He is also survived by his stepdaughter, Angela Keffer; his step-grandchildren, Alexis Lopez, David England and his wife, Krista England, Andreya Keffer, and Katie Keffer; and his step-great-grandchildren, Mia Jenkins, Hope England, Olivia Corbin, and Ophelia Corbin.

 He was preceded in death by his mother, Leona DiTamasso, and his father, Joseph DiTamasso.

 A Memorial Service with full military honors will be held at 10:00 AM on May 6, 2025, at Arizona Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery in Marana, 15950 N. Luckett Road, honoring his life, service, and the legacy he leaves behind.

 In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Rob’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, supporting the fight against childhood cancer and giving hope to families in need.

 His legacy will live on through the lives he touched, the soldiers he trained, and the family who loved him. As we say goodbye, we hold on to the words that guided him and so many others:

 “Blue skies and soft landings, Soldier.”