Harriet Ritland

Harriet Helen Ritland, affectionately known as Grandma Het , died at the Great Falls Peace Hospice House on July 27, 2014. A native of Chouteau County, she was 94 years old.Viewing will be at Schnider Funeral Home on Friday, August 1, 2014 from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. Her funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2014 at 11:00 a.m., at the United Methodist Church in Fort Benton. Burial will follow at the Fort Benton Riverside Cemetery.Harriet was born November 4, 1919 in Geraldine, Montana, the fourth of five children, to Arthur Joseph and Hope Esther (Huntley) Farmer. She graduated from Geraldine High School. In 1941, she married Ted Ritland at the family's ranch north of Geraldine.During World War II, she did clerical work in Fort Benton, while Ted served overseas. Following the war, the couple farmed and ranched in Chouteau County. Harriet was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Harriet was an excellent cook and generous with her hospitality. Drop-in guests were always welcome at her table. Her signature dishes included rolls, fried chicken and dill pickles. Harriet was active in the VFW Ladies Auxiliary and the United Methodist Women. Harriet was an avid gardener, but crocheting was her favorite hobby. Her beautiful doilies, angels, snowflakes and afghans are treasured family heirlooms.She is survived by her sister, Belle (Lee) Rusch of Billings; daughters Carol Ann Ritland of Fort Benton, Betty Jo (Darrell) Chauvet of Big Sandy, and Marilyn (Jim) Carlson of Great Falls; sons Jay (Phyllis) Ritland of Fort Benton and Kenneth (Jennie) Ritland of Loma; ten grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; and two step great grandchildren. Additional survivors include two sisters-in-law, and numerous nieces and nephews.Harriet was preceded in death by her husband, parents and three brothers.Memorials may be sent to Peace Hospice House, 1101 26th St S, Great Falls, or a memorial of the donor's choice.Condolences for the family may be posted online at www.schniderfuneralhome.com.