Lester Ernest Rittmer

Lester Ernest "Turk" Rittmer passed away at his home in Sabula on Wednesday, April 8, 2026. Born on October 17, 1937, in Sabula, Iowa, he was the son of Ernest and Rose (Johnson) Rittmer. Lester was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose steady presence, strong work ethic, and warm sense of humor touched many lives.
A lifelong resident of Sabula, Lester graduated from Sabula High School with the class of 1955. He then attended the Barber College of Davenport. He spent many years serving his hometown as a barber in Sabula, where he enjoyed visiting with people and being part of the daily life of the community.
Lester was united in marriage to Ella Mae Woodhurst, and together they built a life centered on family, hard work, and lasting love. They shared more than 60 years together and were blessed with three children.
For 25 years, Lester worked the night shift at Ralston Purina, retiring in 2002. He was a man who enjoyed keeping busy and working with his hands. He loved woodworking and will be especially remembered for the rocking chairs he made for his grandchildren. He also enjoyed making fruit wines, with apple and raspberry among his favorites.
Lester was a dedicated Hawkeyes fan who enjoyed watching games with family and friends. He was a natural storyteller, a dependable worker, and someone who found joy in simple pleasures and time spent with those he loved. In earlier years, he also gave back to his community as a member of the Sabula Volunteer Fire Department and the Sabula Ambulance Association.
He will be dearly missed by his children, Brent (Dian) Rittmer of Clinton and Twyla (Arnold) Vegter of Morrison; eight grandchildren, Jillyn, Kellie, Aimee, Derek, Destinee, Nicole, Matthew, and Lindsey; five step-grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; and his brother, David (Judy) Rittmer of Sabula.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Ella Mae; his son, Reynold; his brother, Darrel; and his sisters, Juleen Kramer and Darlys Hutten.
A Celebration of Life funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at Calvary Lutheran Church in Sabula. Visitation will be held from 9 until 11 a.m. Tuesday at the church. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Sabula.