Dr. Vern W. Ritter died on September 1, 1991 in Santa Rosa, California at the age of 87 years.

He was born on April 3, 1904 in Olney, Illinois, the son of Jonathan A. and Alice (Ebie) Ritter where his parents were wheat farmers.  After receiving his BS degree in 1926 from the University of Illinois, Urbana, and his MD degree in 1929 from the University of Illinois Medical College, Chicago, he served an internship at Seattle General Hospital, Wash.  Vern practiced medicine and surgery for 13 years.

While serving in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1946, Vern developed an interest in radiology.  After discharge from the army with the rank of major, he entered the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Medicine, Philadelphia, as a fellow in radiology. He finished his studies and graduated in 1949 and then began a private radiology practice in Santa Rosa. Shortly thereafter Vern became a partner to Dr. Robert Butler. This association  developed into one of the largest private radiology practices in northern California, with 24 radiologists, radiation oncologists and medical oncologists.

Vern was a warm and loving collegue whose great knowledge of his chosen specialty was instrumental in causing his group to grow in influence and reputation. He loved life and was an active sportsman. He greatly enjoyed duck hunting and golf. He was a long time member of the Santa Rosa Country Club. He is sorely missed by all who knew him.

He is predeceased by his beloved wife, Blanche; his parents; two brothers, Howard L. and Glen Ritter.

He is survived by his children, Richard A. Ritter and Virginia Truzzolino both of Santa Rosa and eight grandchildren.