Inez "Ritzy" M. Doyle

Passed away on October 18, 2019. Preceded in death by parents Inez and Charles Lowell; sister Grace; brothers, Tom and Charles (Dude) Lowell. Survived by husband Richard, sons Ron, Gregg, Jay, Mikel, Eric Johnstone. Member of Forest Lake American Legion American Legion post Auxiliary. Ritzy died as she wished, at home in husband Richard’s loving arms as he whispered his love to her. Memorial service 2 PM Tuesday October 29th with visitation one hour prior at Roberts Family Life Celebration Home, Forest Lake. Ritzy and I were in the same class at White Bear high school, and dated for several months. Unfortunately we went our separate ways. Both had disappointing subsequent marriages. Through the years I often thought of her and regretted the parting. Years later in the spring of 1974 we met by chance, and were married in August of that year in Park Rapids, Minnesota. A friend said to me, “Even a blind hog gets an acorn once in a while.” That hog was me. Ritzy was a wonderful wife, much better than I deserved. Not only was she beautiful outside, but also beautiful inside, Loyalty is the greatest virtue a wife can have; I know it only too well. She had that in abundance. Despite lifelong health problems, she managed to graciously host our many friends, being known as the Martha Stewart of Forest Lake. With a beautiful voice she sang at nursing homes and on many social occasions. I’m so glad we had the foresight to record her singing several beautiful songs. The C/D will be played at her funeral. About 11 years ago, Ritzy had a debilitating stroke that paralyzed her right side and caused gradually increasing head pains. About a year ago it became necessary to choose between a nursing home and home care. I chose the latter as she wanted to die at home instead of at a facility among strangers. With the help of Medicare’s hospice program that was the best choice. It was a little tough (imagine caring for a 130 pound baby), but not bad when you love someone. Toward the end she was in and out of consciousness, seldom able to speak understandably. She looked at me several times with pleading eyes and said, “Make it stop.” I realized she was referring to the stroke-related head pain. Fortunately the wonderful hospice people had given me an effective pain-eliminating medication. Soon thereafter she began peacefully slipping away as I held her hand and whispered my love in her ear. She died knowing that, at ten twenty on October 18th. It was a beautiful death; dare I say a sacred one? I hope to be able to join her after completing my work here on earth. I am grateful for our American Legion family that has been very supportive during this trying time. Richard Doyle