Marilyn Elizabeth Rittenhouse

Marilyn Elizabeth Rittenhouse, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, was welcomed into eternal rest on October 22, 2026. Born on September 23, 1948, in Rochester, New York, Marilyn was a beacon of kindness, generosity, and love. Her unexpected passing occurred after a fall in her home. Surrounded by the unwavering love of her family and the compassionate care of Hospice of Cincinnati in Blue Ash, Ohio, she departed peacefully. Marilyn was the cherished daughter of Mr. Theodore E. May and Mrs. Marie A. May (Kleeh). She was predeceased by her grandparents, Martin Theodore May and Wilhelmina E. "Minnie" May (Bubel), her maternal grandparents, Uncle Frank Townsend, Aunt Helen Townsend (May), her parents, and many dear friends and relatives. She leaves behind her adoring children, Allison B. (Michael T.) Cline and Martin J. (Emmy T. Cooper) Rittenhouse. Her legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren: Emma A. Cline, Benjamin T. Cline, Cooper M. Rittenhouse, Dorothy R. Rittenhouse, and Kip A. Rittenhouse. Marilyn is also survived by her only sister, Jean (May) (Robert) Katchmar, and her in-laws, Paul (Trini) Rittenhouse, Robert Rittenhouse (Sandra Schwarzbeck), as well as nieces and nephews, Michael R. (Jennifer) Katchmar, Jennifer (Jason) Gawlinski and daughters Madison and Lilly, Leah M. Rittenhouse, and Mariana Rittenhouse, along with other family members and close friends. Marilyn's early years were marked by a thirst for knowledge and a passion for technology. She graduated from Cardinal Mooney High School in Rochester, New York, and pursued further education to become a computer programmer. Her career took her to Xerox in Rochester, where she made significant contributions before choosing to become an independent consultant. This decision allowed her to stay active in the business world while nurturing her family. After relocating to Plymouth, Minnesota, and later Cincinnati, Ohio, Marilyn flourished as a devoted full-time mother. Her final career chapter was at Elder-Beerman in the suit department, a place where she developed lasting relationships with her customers. Marilyn eventually retired from retail in Brighton, Michigan, where she continued to nurture her family and friends with her boundless love. She moved south to Atlanta, Georgia where she could focus on gardening almost year-round, and then moved back to Cincinnati, Ohio to spend more time with her two children and the growing number of grandchildren. In her leisure time, Marilyn found joy in tending to her garden, where she cultivated magnificent roses, hydrangeas, and irises. These blooms allowed her to find some peace and happiness in some uncertain times. She was an occasional seamstress and enjoyed creating hooked rugs, cross-stitching, and immersing herself in books. A lifelong fan of the New York Yankees, she often stayed up late to watch extra innings. Her thoughtful nature shone through in her ability to find the perfect gifts for her loved ones, especially her grandchildren. Marilyn's life was a testament to her love for others. Her unwavering concern for her family and friends was a defining characteristic, and she found immense joy in the company of her children, grandchildren, and her two beloved dogs, Meredith and Millie. A celebration of Marilyn's life will be held on November 6, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Knox Presbyterian Church, located at 3400 Michigan Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio. Marilyn will be laid to rest at Gate of Heaven Catholic Cemetery on Montgomery Road in Cincinnati, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Marilyn's memory to the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, a cause close to her heart. The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the friends and family who have provided unwavering support during this challenging time. Special thanks are extended to her daily medical team, the emergency doctors and nurses at UC West Chester Hospital for their compassionate care and guidance, and Hospice of Cincinnati Blue Ash for their serene and tranquil environment during the last moments. As Elizabeth von Arnim wrote in the book Elizabeth and Her German Garden: "What a happy woman I am, living in a garden, with books, babies, birds, and flowers and plenty of leisure to enjoy them." Marilyn will be deeply missed, and her spirit will continue through cherished memories.