Regina Ritz-Gloekler

Regina Ritz – Gloekler, 65, of Concord Twp. passed away December 6, 2015 at the Cleveland Clinic. She was born May 29, 1950. Regina is a graduate of Collinwood High School and The Ohio State University. After which she pursued a fulfilling forty year career in the field of retail with the Higbee/Dillard Company. Working her way up to a Divisional Merchandise Manager on the buying side where she traveled extensively around the world developing product and helping with the launch of the Dillard Preston and York label in the late eighties. From there she managed three stores including the remodeling of the Flagship Beachwood store and opening the Great Northern Store. In spite of this she always found time for her daughters, never missing a dance recital, football game, concert, banquet or Mom’s weekend. She loved her home and was known for giving the best parties…Halloween, birthday, surprise parties and especially her millennium party all of which she so enjoyed planning and having others enjoy. After needing to retire at the age of 62 due to her Stage IV cancer, she continued to volunteer where she taught religion classes at Divine Word, tutored children, helped others with their careers and spent a good deal of time involved with her strong faith. She loved helping and being there for others. Many of whom she mentored both professionally and personally in so many ways throughout her lifetime. Family and friends were important to Regina and she always found a way to stay connected and maintain many lasting relationships. All of them surrounded her with their love, support and prayer throughout her life and illness. However, the lesson of strength and courage that she taught all of us during her illness has been an amazing inspiration to everyone. Her positive attitude, never giving up and strong faith throughout this time period is a part of her legacy that will remain in our hearts forever. She was the beloved wife of 38 years to Bernard Thomas Gloekler, dear mother to her precious twin daughters, Lauren and Lindsey. Loving sister of Diane (Burke) Bray and her adoring twin brother, David (Barb) Ritz. She is also survived by her special nieces and nephews, ten adorable great grand nieces and nephews including four godchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents Michael and Mary Ritz and brother Michael Ritz. Funeral Mass will be held 10 a.m. Friday at Divine Word Church, 8100 Eagle Rd., Kirtland, OH 44094. The family will receive friends from 3-8 p.m. Thursday at the Brunner Sanden Deitrick Funeral Home & Cremation Center 8466 Mentor Ave., Mentor. Interment will be in All Souls Cemetery, Chardon. In lieu of flowers contributions may be in care of the family for donations to Regina’s favorite charities. Offer condolences at www.brunners.com

Regina Ritz-Gloekler

May 29, 1950 - December 6, 2015