Harris "Douglas" Ritcey

Retired Halifax businessman Harris “Douglas” Ritcey passed away on June 10, 2014, age 96, at Halifax. Born in Halifax, Nova Scotia son of the late Harris A. and Clara B. (Nicholson) Ritcey. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family.

His wife, Margaret Townshend (Sherwood) predeceased him. He is survived by his daughter Mary (Malcolm “Mac” MacLeod), sons Charles and Andrew (Virginia Veinot), six grandchildren and two great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his brothers Carl and Bruce, and sister Kathleen.

He was associated with the family businesses H. A. Ritcey Grocery Limited and Ritceys’ Wholesale Limited. For 62 years he was the bass soloist at Fort Massey United Church initially under the direction of the late Harry Dean, Organist. He served on the Board of Management as Chair of the Finance Committee and was honored for his 50 years of service in the choir by being made an Honorary Elder by the Session.

In his early years he was involved in musicals including Gilbert and Sullivan. He was a frequent soloist with Dick Fry on the CHNS Evening Revelry and a member of The Broken Ring conducted by Trevor Jones. He was a member of the Orpheus male choir under the direction of Scott Hunter. He also volunteered for a number of years bringing musical entertainment to the residents of Victoria Hall. He was a former member of the Halifax Lions Club. Before joining the Royal Canadian Army Service Corp, 2nd World War, he led some evening singsongs in the Halifax Public Gardens. He sang at many weddings, socials, and funerals in several provinces for over 70 years.

For many years, he enjoyed his summer residence at Middle LaHave, socializing and singing solos in several churches in the area. Many friends in Halifax and surrounding areas will miss him

Visitation for family and friends at Cruickshank’s Funeral Home (Windsor Street) General visitation on Wed. June 11, 2014 7-9pm and Thurs. June 12, 2014 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm . Funeral service to be held at Fort Massey United Church on Friday June 13, 2014 at 2pm. Interment in Fairview Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Fort Massey United Church, Halifax and Trinity United Church, Riverport, NS B0J 2W0.

To send messages of condolence to the family, please visit: www.cruikshankhalifaxfuneralhome.com