DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) — Richland Community College is among those mourning the passing of Thomas Ritter, the person killed in a Blue Mound grain bin accident on Wednesday.

Ritter, 73, was a member of the college’s Board of Trustees, and someone whom the college remembered as being dedicated to using his passions to support the community. He joined the board in 2013, filling the vacancy left by a friend.

“He took that to heart and dedicated himself to helping the college serve the community through education and economic development,” the college said in a news release Thursday afternoon. “His leadership, integrity, and quiet generosity have left an enduring mark on Richland and on all who had the privilege to work alongside him.”

Ritter was a lifelong resident of Blue Mound. He was the owner and operator of a corn and soybean farm, and he co-owned Village Travel (a full-service travel agency) with his wife Diana. He also served on the school boards of Blue Mound and Meridian.

In addition to serving as a trustee at Richland, Ritter joined the Illinois Community College Trustee Association as a regional chair and served as a liaison on the Richland Community College Foundation Board. He was also on the boards of the Illinois and National Soybean Checkoff Board, Macon County Farm Bureau, U.S. Grains Council and Macon County 4-H Foundation.

“Everyone who knew Tom loved him,” said Richland President Cristobal Valdez. “It’s rare to meet a person who is so devoted to supporting and growing their community, and Tom demonstrated his passion for education every day. Early in my presidency, Tom chaired the Board. I will always remember him as a mentor, a voice of reason and an advocate of the College and the agriculture community he worked tirelessly for.”

“The unexpected passing of Tom leaves a hole in both our hearts and our community,” said current board chairman Dale Colee. “He was a loyal friend, a trusted leader, and someone who believed deeply in lifting others up through education. We will honor his memory by carrying forward the good work he began. His legacy of service and love will continue to inspire us.”