Melanie Ritter

Melanie Ann Ritter, 57, of Lanesboro, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at home on November 14, 2024, with her loving husband, Dan, by her side. Melanie was a pillar of strength and resilience, especially during her brave battle with colon cancer over the past nine months. Despite the challenges, she faced her illness with determination and grace. When treatments failed, she focused on sharing her love, memories, and wisdom with family and friends, reminding us all, “It’s not goodbye, it’s see you later.”

Born on January 21, 1967, to Gordon and Carolyn (Hanson) More, Melanie’s early life was marked by both trials and joy. After her father’s untimely passing, Melanie and her mother, Carolyn, found a new beginning with Tom Hill and his family in Medford. Melanie formed lasting memories during those years—ice skating with her mom, horseback riding with her new sister Christie, and skiing with the whole family. Later, Melanie and Carolyn moved to Blue Earth to be closer to family, where Melanie graduated from Blue Earth High School in 1985.

Melanie’s heart and home were always open to others. As a mother to Kurt and Lani, and later, through her marriage to her soulmate, Daniel Ritter in 2006, a loving stepmother to Justin and Joe. Melanie built a blended family full of love and shared adventures. Her grandchildren brought her immeasurable joy, and she embraced her role as a grandmother with all the warmth and care that defined her life.

Melanie’s professional life was driven by her passions and dreams. As a Pampered Chef consultant, she combined her love of cooking with the joy of creating opportunities for her family, earning memorable trips through her hard work. Her greatest professional accomplishment, however, came in 2014, when she and Dan fulfilled their dream of owning a campground. Together, they transformed Eagle Cliff Campground and Lodging into one of the most beloved destinations in the region. Melanie’s meticulous attention to detail, dedication to cleanliness, and warm hospitality made the campground a home away from home for countless guests. It was truly a family endeavor, with their children playing an integral role in its success. The community they built with their seasonal and return campers was one of Melanie’s greatest joys.

When not running the campground, Melanie found peace and renewal on sunny beaches. She and Dan cherished their off-season travels, often inviting friends and family to share in their adventures. These trips were filled with laughter, love, and the simple joy of spending time together in the warmth of the sun.

Melanie is survived by her devoted husband, Daniel Ritter; her children, Kurt (Cristina) Sohn and Lani (Chris) Viljoen; her stepsons, Justin (Malorie) Ritter and Joe (Kendall) Ritter; and her treasured grandchildren, Karter Sohn, Kinsley Ritter, and Paige Viljoen. She is also survived by her in-laws, Ken and Diane Ritter, and countless friends who became family through the years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Carolyn Hill and Gordon More, and her grandparents.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 20, from 4–7 p.m. at Hoff Funeral Home in Rushford. A funeral service to celebrate Melanie’s life will take place on Thursday, November 21, at 11 a.m. at Rushford Lutheran Church, with an additional visitation one hour prior. A private burial will follow at a later date.

Melanie’s legacy of love, determination, and unwavering commitment to her family and community will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her vibrant spirit touched the lives of so many, and her legacy will be cherished for generations to come.