Marian Christine Ruyter Richter, 79
DOVER - Marian was born on November 21, 1942, to Mary and Fred Ruyter. She died on June 22, 2021, at Brookdale. Her sister, Susan Rogers had just visited with her a few hours before her death, as did her friend, Peggy Angel.
Marian was very artistic. She made many shell collages and was even featured on QVC. People would visit a loved one at a beach and collect shells then they would give the shells to Marian and she would create beautiful collages.
She also made outstanding paintings in pastel and charcoal. She was also an exceptionally good photographer where her creative side really helped. She was just as proficient at playing the piano and opera style singing. She won 2nd place in the Miss Delaware contest while singing one of her songs. In addition, she was chosen to be prom queen at her senior prom.
She earned an Associate's degree from Wesley College where she studied German. Marian had a love for animals, especially kittens. She had two in the house, but when a stray kitten came to the door sometimes, she couldn't resist and would let them inside too. Marian was a lifelong member of St. John's Lutheran Church where she often sang beautiful solos. She was in both the junior and senior choirs.
In 1964, she married a fellow Lutheran whom she had known her entire life, Robert Richter, an electrical engineer. His company Westinghouse sent him all over the world, Germany, Japan, California, the Everglades, etc. So Marian was well travelled and learned to embrace many diverse people and cultures.
Marian was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Richter; mother, Mary Ruyter; and father, Fred Ruyter.
She is survived by her sister, Susan Rogers; brother, Edward Ruyter and wife Donna; five children between them; and two very dear friends, Robert Coltrain and Peggy Angel; and many more friends and relatives.
A memorial service will be held at St. John's Lutheran church on Lotus and Pine in Dover. A viewing will be on June 29, 2021 at 1:30 p.m., a short service will follow at 2 p.m. Pastor CJ Ransdell will be officiating.
Letters of condolence may be sent, and guestbook signed at www.torbertfuneral.com