Paul was born on September 29, 1924, in Martin, Indiana to Obediah and Lewie Ritchey. He served overseas in the U.S. Army during WWII as a Sergeant in the 8th Armored Division.
Paul graduated with a master's degree from Indiana State University where he taught before taking a job as an accountant with Ralston Purina in St. Louis, MO. There, he met his wife of 69 years, Leola Ritchey. Paul then transferred to Ralston Purina in Kansas City, MO where he and his wife raised four sons.
After Paul retired from Ralston Purina, he became an avid golfer, preferring to walk the courses. He accomplished hitting a hole in one at Hodge Park Golf Course.
Paul was preceded in death by one son, Alan Ritchey; his parents; brothers Vincent Ritchey and Ralph Ritchey; and sisters Olive Resler and Wilma Usrey.
Survivors include his wife; sons David (Cynthia) Ritchey, Steven (Melinda) Ritchey, and James (Julie) Ritchey; grandchildren Michael Ritchey, Matthew (Crystal) Ritchey, Melissa (Seth) Adams, and Megan (Tyler) Uhlenbrock. He was awaiting the birth of his first great grandchild.
Burial at White Chapel Cemetery with full military honors.
