Planned Giving represents a conscious decision on the part of the donor to recognize the blessings one has received from God and to give back in gratitude to further the mission and growth of the Church, through St. John Vianney Parish.
From a practical perspective, a planned gift is a charitable contribution that takes into account the donor’s personal tax, financial and estate circumstances and goals. Planned giving can be a creative tool for making a special financial contribution to St. John Vianney, while maximizing tax and related benefits for the donor and his or her heirs.
Ruth and Warren Ritter
A Love Story, a Caring Church and a Generous Gift
Marriage came late in life for Ruth Stollenwerk, an associate professor of nursing at Marquette for 25 years. She met Warren Ritter through mutual friends. Warren was Lutheran and a retired insurance executive; his first wife died in 1994. It wasn’t long before Warren became Catholic under the instruction of Fr. Dennis Andrews.
Married in 1998, Warren and Ruth ministered to the homebound together. Even as Warren’s health began to fail, he sat in his wheelchair in the front of church and greeted people. Warren died last July at the age of 82. Before his death, Ruth said, “We talked about making a gift and it just felt right. We had so many wonderful memories together.” After Warren’s death, St. John Vianney received a sizeable gift from his estate.
This gift, given in gratitude by Ruth and Warren, is truly a reflection of the life of love and stewardship they lived and wanted to share.
There are a variety of tools to assist you to plan for charitable giving. You can begin with your personal financial advisor or attorney to develop a plan that meets your financial, estate and charitable giving goals. Choose a gift plan that is right for you.
Email this page
Print page
