Howard D. Ritchie passed away on Wednesday, December 16, 2020 at his home in Bone Gap, Illinois, surrounded by friends and family.
Ritchie, as he liked to be called, was born January 5, 1949 in Parkersburg, West Virginia. Immediately after high school he joined the Army 101st Airborne Division as a Paratrooper. He loved the rush of skydiving and continued that love of adventure through the remainder of his life.
The definition of an outdoorsman, Ritchie loved hunting, fishing, looking for Native American artifacts, and shed antlers. If he had his way, he would always be found outdoors. When home, he could be found gardening, making salsa, and canning veggies. Ritchie gave of his time and resources without question to his friends and family. If you were a friend to Ritchie, you were his friend for life.
Ritchie was preceded in death by his parents, Howard Sr. and Elsie Ritchie. He is survived by his significant partner, Marsha Brines; his best friend and constant companion, Lucky; his sister Rebecca Cummings and her Significant Partner Doug Maynard; and many friends and chosen family. He was a favorite of his nurses as well. A special thank you to Sharilyn and Tiffany.
No formal services will be held, but everyone is asked to do a toast of his favorite, Diet Mountain Dew or your favorite beverage, in his memory on his birthday, January 5 at 11:00 A.M.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to an animal shelter of your choice. Condolences and fond memories may be left at www.nalesfuneralhome.com. Nale’s Funeral Home of Albion is assisting the family.
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