Donna Ritz Haller

Donna Ritz Haller, 75, of Elgin, SC, passed away on July 16, 2026, in Camden, SC.

Born on May 1, 1951, in West Carthage, NY, Donna was the daughter of the late Edward and Iona (LaPar) Ritz. She was a 1969 graduate of Harrisville Central School and went on to attend Oswego State College. Donna possessed a sharp mind for business and spent her career working as a financial controller for several automotive dealerships. She dedicated many years to dealerships in Northern New York before relocating to South Carolina in 2000, where she continued her successful career at dealerships in Lexington and Columbia.

On July 4, 2000, Donna married Howard Haller in Adams Center, NY. Together, they built a beautiful life and made their home in Elgin, SC

Donna was a devoted mother, stepmother, friend, and sister who found immense joy in her family—and particularly loved spoiling everyone with thoughtful gifts. She could often be found knitting, reading, making homemade sauce and meatballs, or rescuing stray animals. There was always classic rock playing when she cleaned house, and everyone was welcome. Possessed by an adventurous spirit, she loved the outdoors and always preferred secluded, wooded settings for vacations. Donna also had a passion for motorcycles; she and Howard shared many memorable trips attending Daytona Bike Week and various other motorcycle rallies until health issues arose.

In addition to her husband, Howard, she is survived by her children, Alissa (Douglas) Rucki of Albemarle, NC, and James “Pat” Herron (Jill Skellington) of Lugoff, SC; and her stepdaughters, Sarah (Walter) Rolfe of Watertown, NY, and Erica (Chris) Thomas of Adams Center, NY. She is survived by her three grandchildren, Tristen Ess, Sara Ess, Madalyn Herron, and step-grandchildren Jordan Haller and Janey Rolfe.

She is also survived by her loving siblings, Arthur “Bud” (Pat) Ritz of Colonie, NY, Ardith Roux of Philadelphia, NY, Linda Clement of Gouverneur, NY, Bonnie Sliker (Tony Dilullo) of Bentonville, AR, and Helen (Rodney) Grigg of Spencerport, NY; her sister-in-law, Betty Leonard of Watertown, NY; and many extended family members and friends. She was predeceased by her brothers, Richard and Jack Ritz.

While no formal services are planned at this time, a celebration of Donna’s life is anticipated to take place later this summer in Northern New York.