William Marvin Ritchey passed away June 20, 2012, due to his battle with cancer. He was born February 14, 1935, in Bismarck, North Dakota, to his parents Frank Ritchey and Rose Anunsen._x000D_
Bill spent his early years going to school in Bismarck, ND and spent summers on his sister’s farm in Montana. He joined the army at age 18 and ended his tour of duty in 1956. In 1957 Bill met and married the love of his life Arla Schroedl. In 1963 they relocated to Helena, Montana where they still reside. _x000D_
Throughout Bill’s life, he was employed as an auto and marine mechanic and cable TV installer. While Bill enjoyed working, his gun shop and gun smithing was by far his favorite occupation. He also loved his hobbies. He loved sky diving, trap shooting, radio controlled airplanes, hunting, fishing, and camping under the big blue sky of Montana, but he was best known for his love of guns. He was a true Montanan at heart. Bill also had an active role in his grandchildren and great grandchildren’s lives. _x000D_
He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers: John (Gladys), Frank (Mildred), Robert (Delores); sisters: Margaret (Bill) Stumpf, Violet (Walt) Stockert, Jean (Johnny) Bennett, Annette (Matt) Fleck, Pat (Bob) Kleinsasser, sister-in-law Donna Pfenning._x000D_
Bill is survived by his wife, Arla; brothers-in-law Matt Fleck and Griff Pfenning; daughters and sons-in-law, Julie (Fred) Bailey, Jeanne (Dan) Senecal; son, Rodney; granddaughter, Cortney (Charlton) Senecal; grandsons and their wives, Justin (Khamsin) Bailey, Joshua (Sarah) Senecal, and Scott (Kelsey) Bailey; and great-grandchildren, Abigail and Jonathan Charlton, Addisyn, Luke, and Dawson Bailey; and numerous nieces and nephews. _x000D_
Graveside services will be 1:30 pm, Friday, June 29, 2012 at Montana State Veterans Cemetery with military honors. Big Sky Cremations assisted the family with the services._x000D_
The family wishes all memorials to be made to either Hospice of Helena or St. Peter’s Cancer Treatment Center. To offer condolences to the family please visit www.helenafunerals.com._x000D_
Service Schedule
Service Schedule
Share
Reader Interactions
Memories
Read the thoughts and memories, then feel free to add your own.
Jim & Susan McGrane says
Lit a candle in memory of William M Ritchey
Jim & Susan McGrane says
As a long time neighbor, Bill will be missed. The knowledge, skills, love of dogs, and his always available opinion are things you could count on with Bill. Susan and I extend our deepest sympathies to Arla and family.
Jim McGrane
Larry Petty says
Lit a candle in memory of William M Ritchey
Julie and Fred Bailey says
Lit a candle in memory of William M Ritchey
Teri Juneau says
Roche & Teri Juneau
Teri Juneau says
Sorry to hear of your loss.
Chaplain Richard Reuer says
I wish to extend to you and to members of your family my deepest sympathy on your loss. May the Lord’s loving promises comfort you and give you strength as you walk through this difficult time. On behalf of a greatful nation as an expression of appreciation for the honorable and faithful service rendered by your loved one. “Honoring Those Who Served-Ministryâ€. (If you wish a personalized memorial card mailed to you with history of playing of taps, 21 gun salute, meaning of each fold of the flag as a keepsake, please mail address to where the card is to be sent to: Chaplain Richard Reuer, 1206 6th St SW, Minot, ND 58701. This is a free service to fallen veteran families.)
Bobo Nies says
My brother Danny Klinger & myself (Bobo Nies) (Frank & Mildred Ritchey children) wish to send our most sincere condolences to the family. We are very saddened by this news. We know that comfort can come through the love of your family & friends. Our deepest sympathy is enxtended to you.
Don and Pat Ivey says
Sorry for you loss, we will miss Bill and all the memories! Don and Pat Ivey and family
pat and don ivey says
Sorry for you loss, we will miss Bill and all the memories! Our prayers and thoughts are with you! Don, and Pat Ivey and family
don and pat ivey says
so sorry for your loss, we will remember all the good memories of Bill, our thoughts and prayers are with you! Don and Pat Ivey and family!
don pat ivey says
So sorry for your loss. We will remember all of the good memories of Bill. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Don and Pat Ivey and family.
don pat ivey says
tribute
pat stumpf lavoy says
Lit a candle in memory of William M Ritchey
pat stumpf lavoy says
billy gave me my first motorcycle ride when I was 12…grandma ritchey gave me his toys to play with…this is the end of the ritchey kids..god bless you all…my mom your sister loved you so…your all together now…