Samantha Nicole Ritenour passed from this good earth on Monday, August 15, 2016. She was born on August 19, 1977 to Douglas Scott Ritenour and Janis (Winter) Ritenour in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. Sam grew up in Saukville, later attending Port High. She spent time living in Port Washington, Milwaukee, and finally, 12 years in her final home overlooking the lake in Port. Sam leaves behind her loving sister, Nicole Ritenour and her niece Braelynn Jaccard of Port Washington, three half-siblings, her father, cousins, and other relatives. She was preceded in death by her cherished mother, Jan. She also leaves dear, long-time friends, Dan Pokrop and Kati Katchever, among others. Samantha took great joy in writing, creating art, and listening to music. She earned an Associates Degree in Landscape Horticulture from MATC. Always a passionate gardener and plant lover, Sam created subtly ornamented landscapes, cultivating life and beauty with a passion and an indomitable green thumb. A great lover of animals and nature, Sam reveled in state and national parks, often hiking, camping, and finding peace in wild places. She had three cats: Scout (Tiny), Rita, and Kitty, whom she loved dearly. Sam's wit, infectious humor, and unforgettable laugh made for a welcoming social presence that delighted all who encountered her. She also spent a great deal of her life in deep self reflection and solitude, cultivating a handful of close, lasting friendships. Memorial gathering in honor of Samantha's life will be held at Harrington Beach State Park Welcome Center in Lake Church, WI Saturday, August 27. Private visitation 12-2pm. Public welcome at 2pm, service at 3pm. Daily state park fee applies. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Harrington Beach State Park or the Ozaukee County Humane Society in honor of Sam.