Douglas Donald Rittmann

DOUGLAS DONALD RITTMANN, Ph. D., P.E., son of Lutheran Pastor George and Gladys Rittmann passed away on Tuesday, December 5, 2017 at the age of 72. He was a loving husband, father, brother and will be greatly missed. He retired from the El Paso Water Utilities as a Water Division Manager after 30 years of service. He had a love of knowledge; in 1999 he received his Ph.D. in Environmental Science and Engineering from the University of Texas of El Paso and lectured there afterwards where he was able to inspire students and share his passion of teaching. Dr. Doug had a love of music and played the organ for over 50 years, fulfilling his sacred task that God assigned to him faithfully playing for Lutheran, Catholic, Methodist and Baptist churches, including weddings and funerals. He had the great privilege and honor of playing the “Mighty Wurlitzer” then located at Sunland Park Mall from 2001 to 2004 to the delight of many, young and old. Watching him play this complex and amazing instrument was awe inspiring to all. He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years Frances Rivera Rittmann, brother Fritz Rittmann; sister Doris Rittmann; his children, Pamela, Christy and Susan Rittman, Donna Alvarez, Alan Spence and George Spence, his grandchildren Jennifer and Justin Alvarez, Crystal, Vanessa, James and Johnathon Andersen, 4 great-grandchildren; Curt, Connor, Catarina and Charlotte and numerous nieces and nephews. Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, December 15, 2017 at 2:00PM at Sunset Funeral Home-West. Services entrusted to Sunset Funeral Home-West, 480 N. Resler Dr. Please visit our online registry at www.sunsetfuneralhomes.net