Bear L. Ritschke, 63, passed away unexpectedly April 26, 2026, at home.
Bear was born March 10, 1963, in Oshkosh. He grew up in the Wittenberg area where he attended school. He later made his home in Green Bay where he eventually met his fiancée, Irene. They had a great relationship where they really complemented each other’s presence.
Bear was a member of the Green Bay Fraternal Order of Eagles for more than 10 years. Bear and Irene used to volunteer at Eagles’ bingo night where they would make popcorn. He would also help his landlord cut grass and shovel snow until his health would no longer allow him to do it. Bear was truly a person who wanted to help out if he could.
He was a firm believer in his savior Jesus Christ and is now at peace and pain-free.
Bear is survived by his fiancée, Irene; brother, Wayne (Susie); his good friend, Douglas; plus other friends as well.
He was preceded in death by his father, Duane; mother, Shirley; and brothers, John and Billy.
A celebration of Bear’s life will be held from 5-8 p.m. June 17 at VT Pride Park in the 2100 block of Imperial Lane in Green Bay. An Eagles memorial service will take place at 6 p.m.
