James E. Ritchie, 69, from Holley, went home to be with His beloved Savior on December 15. Born on January 30, 1952 in Rochester, he was the son of Hans and Margaret (Koetter) Ritchie, both of whom predeceased him. He is survived by his best friend and wife of 34 years, Holly (Smith) Ritchie, his son Eric Ritchie (Mandie), daughter Irina Ritchie, and granddaughter Sadie Lynn Ritchie. He is also survived by his siblings John (Georgia) Ritchie, Paul (Linda) Ritchie, Karen (Curt) Conklin, Robert (Sue) Ritchie, David (Cindy) Ritchie, Tom (Donna) Ritchie, Peter (Sandy) Ritchie, Kurt Ritchie, and Carol (Ahmed) Fahsi Ritchie, as well as his sister-in-law and brother-in-law Majel and George Legters, and numerous nieces and nephews.
After graduating from high school in 1969, Jim earned a college degree in math and education from SUNY Brockport. He taught in various schools before settling at Brockport Central School where he taught for 27 years. Perhaps he’s best remembered for the things he grew and sold. He operated his cut-your-own Christmas tree farm for over 20 years. He loved families coming to cut a tree, and handing out candy canes. He also grew and sold vegetables, nursery stock, and cut flowers.
The family will hold a memorial service at Christ Community Church at a later date. Those who would like to make a donation in Jim’s memory may do so to the Quest Pro Life ministry at Christ Community Church’s website, cccbrockport.org under the tab labeled “giving.” You may leave condolences at www.falconefuneralhome.com.
