Carl Byron Ritchie

Carl was born May 17, 1959 to Oscar and Eunice (Grigsby) Ritchie, he was the 6th of 9 children.

Preceded in death by parents; brothers Paul, Marvin and Dwight; and too many others whom he loved dearly.

He is survived by his favorite daughter, Melissa Ritchie, and Melissa's half-sister, Angela Vachavake, whom he loved as his own. Also survived by siblings Carol Schotz, Paulette Lamp (Roger), Kurt (Kelly - his favorite sister-in-law) Ritchie and Jeri (his favorite baby sister) Ritchie. His oldest brother, David Ritchie, may or may not be living, nobody is quite sure. And, like any other marginally "normal" family, there was plenty of drama, but also plenty of love of friends and family who are not named here - but they know who they are.

Carl was an amazing human with a big heart. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and riding motorcycles. He shared his love of gardening and plants with his daughter, and always grew amazingly beautiful rose bushes. He loved spending time with his nieces and nephews and their children, being a big kid at heart himself. He always had an appropriately sarcastic comeback and was quick to laugh, was hard working and kind and an all around genuine person.

Unfortunately, Covid doesn't care about the people we know and love. It doesn't care about the people that are ultimately lost without their loved ones. It is cruel and unfair, and it took my dad from me on September 2, 2021, just shy of a year from when it took his brother Dwight (December 19, 2020). We all miss you Dad. We'll see you on the other side.

There will be no formal service, instead his ashes will be scattered in the places he was happiest, with friends and family who are able to attend, and stories will be shared over a campfire and a beer. Let's remember him for the person he was, not the sorrow we feel.