June 24, 1940 - November 7, 2020
In Loving Memory
June 24, 1940 - November 7, 2020
Edward "Ed" Donald Ritchie passed away peacefully on November 7, 2020, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Montreal, on June 24, 1940, Ed was the son of the late Donald and Edith (Tutte) Ritchie. He is survived by his daughter Susan Latour (Nanaimo, BC), son James "Jim " Ritchie and daughter-in-law Stacey Greenough-Ritchie (Halifax, NS); grandchildren Michelle Latour (Victoria, BC), Sarah Latour (Nanaimo, BC), Timothy "Tim" Latour, wife Jacqueline Latour and great granddaughter Rosemary "Rosie" Latour (Victoria, BC); siblings Cathy Garvey and husband John Garvey (Penticton, BC) and Grace Delday (Sidney, BC) and brother and sister-in-law Ted and Lynn Hitchen, as well as many nieces and nephews.
Ed was predeceased by the love of his life, Rose, whom he missed each day since she was called home. The family takes great comfort in the knowledge that Ed and Rose have been reunited and are together with God, whom they both served faithfully.
Ed was also predeceased by his parents, his sister Donna and brother-in-law Al Hatch and their baby Donald, brother-in-law Raymond Mousseau and brother-in-law James Delday, his nephew Sean Garvey, as well as several cherished friends. Ed was known for being exceptionally kind and had a way of making people feel instantly welcome in his home. We know that he was welcomed into heaven and there was much celebration, talking and laughter when Ed arrived to join those he loved so dearly.
Ed loved music and he played in the Salvation Army Band for the greater part of his life, and he was well known for playing "The Last Post" on his cornet at the annual Remembrance Day celebrations in Ladysmith. He was highly invested in the lives of children, leading Sunday School for many years and coaching little league and tee-ball. He was well-known at Nelson's laundromat, where he worked for nearly 50 years; always offering a kind word and sharing laughter with his workmates. In his later years, Ed enjoyed singing with his friends, "The Nanaimo Tidesmen".
Ed's love of family was evident for all to see, taking precedent over all aspects of his life. His grandchildren brought tremendous happiness to Ed, and little Rosie's arrival brought him tears of joy. The family are grateful for the many wonderful times spent together.
Ed worked tirelessly throughout the years to ensure that his children and grandchildren enjoyed glorious annual summer vacations in Qualicum Beach at St. Andrew's Lodge. Qualicum was a magical place for Ed and his whole family, where they made many lifelong friends.
There is a saying that there is no legacy so rich as being honest, doing good things and leaving your mark behind. Ed, you certainly have left your mark, in your living example to all who were fortunate enough to know you. Your legacy is kindness, generosity, faithfulness, and absolute unconditional love toward others. Well done thou good and faithful servant (Matthew 25:21).
Donations may be made in Ed's memory to The Salvation Army.
The family would like to express sincere appreciation to Dr. Calvin for his ongoing care of Ed. We also wish to extend our thanks to the amazing staff at the Nanaimo Seniors Village, particularly his nurses Genevieve and Jenn. An additional note of thanks to Myrna, who enabled Ed's family to remain connected to him at a distance during the pandemic and who ensured that family were able to participate in his 80th birthday celebration.
We are forever grateful.
A small memorial service has been held at The Salvation Army Church in Nanaimo, BC. A further service and internment will be held in 2021, once it is safe to do so.
Success
He has achieved success who has lived well,
laughed often, and loved much;
who has gained the respect of intelligent people and
the love of little children;
who has filled his niche and accomplished his task;
who has left the world better than he found it
whether by an improved poppy, a perfect poem or a rescued soul;
who has never lacked appreciation of Earth's beauty
or failed to express it;
who has always looked for the best in others and
given them the best he had;
whose life was an inspiration;
whose memory a benediction.
- Bessie Anderson Stanley