Robert Ritchey

Robert E. Ritchey of Toledo passed away while under hospice care on Saturday, August 6th, 2011 of pancreatic cancer. He was born in Columbus, Ohio to Jim and Lorna (Wells) Ritchey. As a young boy, upon the death of his father, Bob moved to Point Place where he developed a love for the water which lasted a lifetime. He later lived in Luna Pier, MI and Lake Seneca in Montpelier. He was known for his kindness, zany wit, having many friends, love of family, animals, sports and for his quiet intelligent way.

Bob worked as a conductor on the DTSL (CN) Railroad for over 30 years. Much of that was spent fighting for workers rights as a General Chairman with his motley crew committeemen bar none of friends; Dick Twyford, Mike Reny, Digger Strawser, Gary Pierce and Brad Raitz. He also served as a Legislative Rep. out of Columbus fighting for railroad workers' safety issues.

Bob was a lover of all types of great music. He and his wife's' music collection would often over-run the house, especially since they were always at auctions finding albums, art and 'junque.' His other affiliations and pastimes in his life included being a Mason and Shriner; member of the Blackhawks Motorcycle Club with his Harley and Riverview Yacht Club, boating on Lake Erie, camping, fishing, golfing with friends and family, spending time at his 'paradise' at Lake Seneca, bowling, watching The Godfather movies, football betting (go Bucks and Steelers!) and a master at crossword puzzles.

In addition to his parents Bob was preceded in death by his little sister, Marilyn; dear son, Roger Ritchey; brother-in-law, Rick, and beloved pets, Penny, Daisy and Freckles. He is survived by his wife, Judi; children, Jim (Deb) David (Sanch) Ritchey and Cathy (Jeff) Welch; grandkids, Katy, David, Crystal, Jolyn, Danette, Roger, Alaina, Nicky and Keith; daughter-in-law, Lourie Ritchey; sister-in-law, Bonnie Tarsha; brother-in-law, Billy (Suzie) Tarsha; aunt Max; many friends and puppy, Bandit. Bob, Bobby, Dad, Papa, Godspeed- you will be greatly missed!

The family will receive guests Wednesday from 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, 4150 W. Laskey Rd. (419-473-0300). Services and Sharing of Memories will begin in the funeral home Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. Officiating will be Rev. Lynn O'Dell. Interment will be private.

The family would like to especially thank Sherri and many of the other dear hospice nurses for their care and compassion.

"His life was gentle and the elements so mixed in him, that nature might stand up and say to all the world, "this was a man!" W. Shakespeare