Melody Ann Riter, 76 of Keokuk, IA died Wednesday, August 2, 2023 at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, IA.

She was born June 3, 1947 in Keokuk, IA the daughter of Everett Sr. and Dorothy Page Frueh. Melody graduated from Keokuk High School with the class of 1965 and attended Southeastern Community College.

On September 5, 1980, Melody was united in marriage to Joe Riter in Keokuk. He survives.

Other survivors include five nieces, Joy Jairl of Keokuk, Rebecca Kaylyn (Joe) of Las Vegas, NV, Wendy Canida (Mike) of Keokuk, Amanda Dailing and Jenny Ross (Jamie) of Kahoka, MO, and two nephews, Randy Frueh of Ames, IA and Jeff Johnson (Christy) of Aylett, VA. She is also survived by numerous great-nieces and great-nephews and cousins and a special sister-in-law, Katie Downey of Kahoka, MO.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one sister, Sherry Jairl, one brother, Everett "Butch" Frueh, Jr., one sister-in-law, Betty Riter and one nephew, Brian Jairl.

Melody had been employed by several local businesses through the years, including Thomas Trucking, A&W Restaurant, Dryden, Keokuk Steel Castings, Southeastern Community College and lastly by the City of Keokuk as an assistant to the City Clerk, until her retirement in 1997.

She was a member of the American Legion Women's Auxiliary and the Keokuk Racers Reunion. Melody was also a faithful member of New Testament Christian Church and taught Sunday School for many years.

Melody enjoyed bowling and won a state championship. She found joy in life's simplest pleasures. She had a passion for shopping, especially for purses and her travels to Florida brought her many cherished memories. Melody found solace in the pages of books and had a deep love for animals.

A funeral service was held at 12 noon, Monday at the Vigen Memorial Home in Keokuk, IA with Joy Jairl officiating. Burial was the Oakland Cemetery in Keokuk.

Visitation was held prior to the service, Monday, from 10 a.m.-12 noon at the funeral home with family meeting with friends at that time.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital or ASPCA Guardian or to the City of Christmas.