Mel James Ritcey

With great sadness, we announce the passing of Mel on July 17 surrounded by the love of his family.

Survived by his beloved wife of 55 years Cheryl Dawn (Neville). They met at QEH high school and were together for more than 60 years.

He was the very proud dad of Jill Trask (Tony) and Adam (Kelly). “Boppy” to two grandsons Nate Trask and Everett Ritcey, who he adored and always managed to make laugh. He leaves his family with many treasured memories, more than a few “dad” jokes, and a killer margarita recipe.

Mel is also survived by his sisters, Jan and Marian; his brother-in-law Brian Neville (Judie); his niece Mara Diaz (Ruy) and nephew Paul Creighton; and many cousins.

Mel was predeceased by his parents, Lloyd Melvin and Florence Katheryn (Jordan) Ritcey.

Mel graduated from Dalhousie University in 1968 with his Bachelor of Commerce. During his university years, Mel played varsity basketball and football. He was also a member of Sigma Chi and he remained close to his fraternity brothers throughout his life.

Mel spent over 32 years with the Ford Motor Company where he built not only a career, but a reputation as a dependable, hard-working and genuinely good man. He was so loyal, that many friends often wondered if he had the Ford oval tattooed on his chest.

Mel made friends wherever he went. The kind of friends that become family. A passionate golfer, he was chagrined to admit that his first hole in one came eight years after Cheryl’s.

A celebration of Mel’s life will be held at J. A. Snow’s Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Dr, Halifax on July 26, 2025 from 2:00-4:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to the Canadian Cancer Society or the charity of your choice.