MPW.67 / 2015 A Life, Simplified by Andrew Nelles
Photographer
Andrew Nelles Chicago, Ill.

Team Eppridge

Story Summary

Tom Ritter left a lucrative job designing weapons systems in the aerospace industry to return home and take over the family farm. The farm, which has been in the family for three generations, has changed direction under Tom, now focusing on sustainability while raising high-end grass-fed beef. Tom lives a humble life in a mobile home with his roommate Jennifer Allie Friedrich, who has cerebral palsy. Tom's passions drive his life. He spends his days watching over the animals and those he cares for most.