Erma Ritchey, 88, Eden Prairie, MN

Erma F. Ritchey, 88, Monday, Feb. 11, 2008, at her home in Eden Prairie, surrounded by family.
Erma Linnihan was born Jan. 30, 1920, in Ironton. She grew up in Red Lake Falls, earned a teaching license and later a nursing degree.
She married Mayron Ritchey and moved to Fergus Falls. After World War II, they moved to Dodge Center, where they lived for 15 years, then moved back to Fergus Falls.
In Dodge Center, Erma taught in rural schools and provided private nursing to those in need. Upon her return to Fergus Falls, she continued teaching at rural schools in the area. Erma was a natural teacher and loved to see her students flourish.
She was preceded in death by husband, Mayron; and a daughter Nancy.
She is survived by sons, Tom (Virginia) of Andover, Bruce (Paula) of Ft. Wayne, Ind., Todd (Joan) of Minnetonka; a daughter, Sr. Mary Arnold OSF of Rochester; 10 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, at Epiphany Catholic Church in Coon Rapids, with visitation one hour before.
The following day she will be buried next to Mayron in Fergus Falls, at St. Otto's Cemetery. Following the burial a reception for local family and friends will be from noon to 2 p.m., at the Eagles Club in Fergus Falls.