Michael Peter Ritter

Michael Peter Ritter, age 92 years of Takoma Park, Maryland died peacefully on October 21, 2025. Mike, as he was known, was born and raised in the Philadelphia area. He spent two years in Arizona where he recovered from a childhood illness. This move gave him a love of travel and reinforced his love of animals.

Mike continued his education at Penn Charter School in Philadelphia and Amherst College in Massachusetts. At Amherst, he formed many friendships in crewing and jazz bands. Mike was a very talented musician capable of playing many types of instruments and playing any form of music. After college, he continued his love of music playing with the Hard Travelers, Arcadians, and Not So Modern Jazz group, to name a few. Continuing his love of water, Mike sailed every summer for many years with friends in New England. He was “Chief Cook”.

Mike’s life work was film and video editing. Beginning with the Guggenheim Film Company in the late 60’s and on to his own editing company working for the Smithsonian, PBS, and private clients until his retirement. Many happy days were spent at the Thousand Islands cottage and the Saint Lawrence River.

Mike is survived by his wife, Margo of 58 years, his cousin, Paula, and many nieces, a nephew, and a great niece and great nephews. Mike loved his daily neighborhood walks for the exercise and being outdoors, chatting with neighbors, and petting their dogs.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Penn Charter School at www.penncharter.com