Gary E. Rittenhouse, 79, Marion, went to be with the Lord at 10:54 p.m. on Friday, November 25, 2016, in his home. He was born in Marion to Merritt and Dorothea (Cary) Rittenhouse. He married Ginger Hastings on August 22, 1968, and she survives.
Gary was a lifelong resident of Grant County. He graduated from Marion High School in 1955 and attended Ball State University. Gary and his wife owned and operated Ginger Lee Hairstylist, Inc., and Rittenhouse Barber Stylist for 34 years in addition to owning several real estate properties.
In 1976, Gary and his wife accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior who would become the center of their 48-year marriage. As a young man, Gary was a natural athlete excelling in basketball and baseball, and he later developed a love for golf. Gary was known for his big heart. He was fiercely loyal to friends and family and showered them with unconditional love and support. He believed in the goodness in people and encouraged them to pursue their dreams. His generous and compassionate spirit often led him to rescue those in need. He was quick to forgive. His strength of spirit and faith will long be cherished by everyone who knew him and will inspire all of his family to be better men and women.
He was blessed with a large and loving family and will be dearly missed by Ginger, his wife; children, Katherine Niebauer, Karen Bishop, Kevin (Lisa) Rittenhouse, and Kelly Rittenhouse, all from Marion, Sue Van Matre, Fairmount, Ben Brannon, South Bend, and Robert Marshall, Wabash; grandchildren, Jon (Christina), Jennifer, David, and Ashley Niebauer, Victoria Bishop, Kristen (Brayden) King, James, Elizabeth, Alex, and Katie Rittenhouse, Bryan Chastain, Megan (Brian) McClure, Kori (Jeff) Cullipher, Kyle (Brittany) Van Matre, Erica Van Matre, Chelsey Inman, Jana Miller, Benjamin Brannon, Thomas, Jathan, Blaine, and Aubrey Marshall, and 29 great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, Gary was preceded in death by a brother, James Irwin Rittenhouse, and his in-laws, Arthur (Virginia) Hastings.
Family and friends may call from 4-8 p.m. on Thursday, December 1, 2016, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion.
Services are at 11:30 a.m. at the funeral home on Friday, December 2, 2016, with Pastor Judy Crossman officiating. Burial will follow at Gardens of Memory.
Online condolences may be made at www.nswcares.com.