Obituary: David Owen Ritter

Lifetime Alaskan resident David Owen Ritter, 66, passed away on Feb. 25, 2026, in Juneau, Alaska.

David Owen Ritter

David was born Sept. 2, 1959, in Juneau to John Ritter and Diana Markovich. He was the second oldest of nine siblings and grew up surrounded by the rugged beauty of Southeast Alaska. In his younger years you could find David at Swampy Acres tending to and riding the horses. He attended Auke Bay Elementary and graduated from Juneau-Douglas High School. After graduating David spent a few years traveling to Washington, California, Florida and Oregon. He settled in Juneau after learning the heavy equipment operating trade and worked with various contractors. Ultimately, David retired from a career with the City and Borough of Juneau as an operator, a role he took great pride in.

David had a deep love for the outdoors, was an avid hunter, and spent countless hours at the Ritter property, a place that grounded him throughout his life. He adored his dogs, Ace and Blaze, who were constant companions. After retiring, David embraced his free time with enthusiasm—traveling to state auctions and exploring the roads of the Lower 48 in his beloved conversion van, always ready for the next adventure. As a result of being a successful bidder, David had many projects going at once.

David is survived by his mother Diana Markovich of Juneau; sisters Ruth McFall (Dave) of Eagle Point, Oregon, Leah Beedle (John) of Juneau, Susan Cloudy (David) of Ketchikan, Alaska, and Tammy Shipler (Chris) of Olympia, Washington; sister‑in‑law Darcy Markovich of Juneau; and brothers Robert Markovich (Gina) of Juneau, and Matthew Markovich of Wasilla, Alaska, and countless nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his father John Ritter, stepfather Andrew Markovich, and brothers John Ritter and Andrew Markovich.

David will be remembered for his simple approach to life, his independence, his loyalty to family, and the quiet, steady presence he carried through life.

A celebration of life will be held on July 4, 2026, at the Ritter property at 26 mile (25201 Glacier Highway) in Juneau, where David never missed a Fourth of July celebration. One year, his Uncle Bob said “don’t burn down the 40 acres” as he retired for the day, and soon after David was scaling a spruce tree to put out a small fire ignited from a rogue firework. All are invited to come and share a “Ritter” story or two.