Donald Ford Ritenour

Donald Ford Ritenour, 91, of Woodbridge, Virginia, peacefully passed away on September 5, 2026. He was born on June 1, 1935 in Woodstock, Virginia, to the late Harold Richard (Dick) Ritenour and the late Hester May Ritenour. He was preceded in death by his two older brothers Harold Lee and Eugene Carson. Donald graduated from Woodstock High School in 1953 where he excelled in academics and participated in both football and baseball. Following High School graduation, he joined the United States Marine Corps, graduating Boot Camp with distinction and beginning a 25-year career. Don retired as a Mustang Major in 1978, having received numerous commendations. He loved sharing his knowledge of the Corps, volunteering volumes of hours as a Docent at the National Museum of the Marine Corps, and serving as President of the USMC Food Service Association. After retirement from the Marine Corps, Don then worked for ARA (later known as ARAMARK) retiring after 22 years. During his life, Don was an active member in Methodist churches in every place he was stationed. He sang in the choir, assisted with various church activities, and served in many leadership positions. Don was a member of John A. LeJeune Masonic Lodge in Quantico, Virginia for over 60 years, where he served as both Worshipful Master and District Deputy Grand Master. Additionally, he was a member of the Alexandria Scottish Rite, National Sojourners, Heroes of 76, Kena Shriners (KENA 500), Royal Order of Jesters, the VFW, the American Legion, and the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels. As a Mason, he became active with the International Order of Job’s Daughters where he served as Associate Bethel Guardian and Associate Grand Guardian. He was also an Honorary member of the International Order of DeMolay. In his retirement years, Don and his wife Deb achieved their traveling goals by seeing all 50 states, 47 state capitals, 16 National Parks, six Canadian Providences, 20 of the 22 Shriner Hospitals, and an abundance of sport facilities, museums, and parks. While serving in the Marine Corps was the highlight of Don’s life, he was well known as a friend, helper, and mentor to everyone he met. His sense of humor, moral compass, strong leadership qualities, and wise advice were admired by all. Don was a man of great faith who served as an example and role model for family and friends through the Godly life he led. Don was preceded in death by his first wife, Rosalie Bonner Ritenour, with whom he had five daughters: Denise Hammond (David), Pamela Storrs (James), Angela Clark (Chris), Melody Coughenour, and Teresa Bellanger (Robert). He is survived by his loving wife, Deborah DeMarco Ritenour (Deb), thirteen grandchildren, eighteen great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, and numerous nieces and nephews. Nothing made Don smile like when he was with the entire family. Masonic Service and Celebration of Life will be held September 19, 1 p.m. at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, 14999 Birchdale Ave, Woodbridge, VA 22193. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to: Shriner Hospital for Children Philadelphia Attn: Terry Diamond 3551 N Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19140

Donald Ford Ritenour

June 1, 1935 - September 5, 2026