Marcia J. (Ritzel) Beaton

October 11, 1939 – February 7, 2025

Marcia J. (Ritzel) Beaton, 85, of Estero, FL and Utica, NY, passed peacefully at her Florida home on February 7, 2025.  Marcia was born on October 11, 1939, the 3rd of 13 children to Mary (Branigan) and Charles Ritzel.

Devoted Matriarch

Marcia is survived by her six children: Joseph (Sandra) Beaton of Remsen, NY, Rikard (Ann) Beaton of Clinton, Marcia (the late Robert) Bugbee of Lake Placid, Aron Beaton of Marcy, Eunice (Robert) Amidon of Rome, and Monica (Bryan) Zevotek of Carthage, NY.  She was the cherished Grandmother to fourteen grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy. 

She was one of thirteen children, and is survived by her brothers Charles, Ronald, Michael and James Ritzel and her sisters Judith Scire, Jacqueline Meyer, Patricia Ameduri, Pamela Calabrese and Phyllis Evans.  She was predeceased by her sister Maureen, brothers Robert and Edward Ritzel.

Marcia also had many beloved in-laws, nieces and nephews, all of whom she enjoyed spending time with.

Predeceased by her beloved husband of 49 years, Joseph Rikard Beaton (2004), and sons Francis and Charles, Marcia’s unwavering strength sustained her family through loss, anchoring them in traditions of faith and togetherness.

A Life of Service and Joy

As owner of MJ Gradall Inc., Marcia demonstrated her entrepreneurial spirit and business insight.  A parishioner of St. Mark’s Church (North Utica), St. Joseph & St. Patrick Church (Utica) and St. Leo the Great (Bonita Springs, FL), Marcia lived her faith through active service.  Her dedication to St. Peter’s Parochial School was evident in her many roles – from serving in the school’s library and cafeteria to coaching track and cross-country, she helped shape the school’s culture while supporting her children’s education.  Her North Utica home became legendary for its Christmas Eve celebrations where generations would gather for wonderfully chaotic festivities.  Throughout the year, her door was always open for spirited card games and heartfelt conversations, welcoming friends and family alike with her characteristic warmth.

“Her home was always open, her heart even more so.”

Celebrating her legacy

A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Monday, February 17th at 10 AM at St. Joseph & St. Patrick Church in Utica, NY.  Private interment will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:

Hope Hospice

Hope Development Department

9470 Health Park Circle

Fort Myers, FL 33908

Or

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

501 St. Jude Place

Memphis, TN 38105