Jean C. Struben

Jean C. Struben, age 94, of Jarrettsville, Maryland entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on July 1, 2024. Born in Rosedale, she was the daughter of the late William A Ritter, Sr and Clara Matilda (Milke) Ritter and wife of the late Francis “Bill” Struben. 

She graduated as an honor student from Kenwood High School in 1947 where she excelled in Math. 

Jean managed her father’s hardware store, Ritter Hardware, where she met her husband whom she then joined in his business Silver-top Mfg Co., Inc. Together they built a successful business with Jean in charge of the office matters while Bill ran the design and manufacturing aspects of the company.

After moving to Harford County, Jean and her daughter Linda enjoyed pony and carriage riding. She also opened the Upstairs Room Christian Bookstore in Rosedale with her daughter Carol. 

Mrs. Struben was active in Harford County and Jarrettsville community affairs having founded the Jarrettsville Civic League, and serving as its president. 

She was tough and always ready for an adventure whether it was hiking the Grand Canyon, getting her motorcycle license or scuba diving. She was an avid snow skier, water skier, lover of the outdoors including fishing, hunting, crabbing and camping. Her family enjoyed the vacations that she planned every year.

Jean is survived by her two daughters, Carol Knickman (Ed) and Linda Trott (Willis), granddaughter, Clare Dalby (Josh), grandson Thomas Knickman (Stephanie) and 

great granddaughter, Eleanor Knickman. In addition to her husband and parents Jean was preceded in death by her brother, William A Ritter, Jr. 

Jean lived a long life of determination and purpose. She will be greatly missed by family and friends who are comforted by knowing that she is rejoicing in the presence of the Lord Jesus. As much as we will miss her in this world, we know she is finally Home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Jean Struben to The F. Struben Foundation, Inc., 3854 Jarrettsville Pike, Jarrettsville, MD 21084 or Gilchrist Hospice, 11311 McCormick Road Suite 350 Hunt Valley, MD 21031-9981