We Remember
RITCHIE, Valerie Anita Louise
June 1, 1937 — September 20, 2021
It is with great sadness that we announce that Valerie Ritchie (née vanAckeren), in her 84th year, suddenly passed away, Monday, September 20, 2021, at the Kelowna General Hospital. She passed away from COVID-19, after a long battle with cancer and a compromised immune system. She lived life to the fullest, with family, friends and community groups at the forefront. Travel, shows, and playing cards were priorities, along with coffee at Tims with friends daily. She is survived by her husband of 62 years Don; children Heather (Stu) and David (Donna); grandchildren Duncan and Jennifer; and great-grandson Mason.
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A Funeral Service will be held on SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2021 at 1:00 PM PDT at Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC, with reception to follow. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the number of attendees will be limited, if you wish to attend please click here to sign up. If you are unable to attend in person, please join the family online by Livestream (same day and time), a recording will be made available to view shortly thereafter (see below).
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
LIVESTREAM:
Service
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2021 at 1:00 PM
Location
Springfield Funeral Home
My condolences. I remember several wonderful meals together and what kindness was shared.
I am devastated by the tragic loss of my Auntie Val. She was always so fun, hospitable, loving and genuine. She gifted me with her VHG nursing cape when I graduated from VGH. I will treasure it forever and on Saturday I will wrap myself in it to receive a last hug from her. Rest In Peace Auntie Val and say hi to Mom.
Our deepest condolences to all the Ritchie family. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers as you celebrate the life of such a wonderful lady. She will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts. Love and Hugs from the entire Uhrig family.
Don and family,
So sad to hear of cousin Val’s passing. Please know that you are in our hearts and that we send our love at this most difficult of times. Brian and Barb
Don and family, we were so sorry to hear that Valerie had passed away. Our sincerest condolences to all of you. She was truly a lovely lady, and will be dearly missed by all. God be with you and your family at this sad time.
Over the span of 30 years we golfed together, broke bread together, played cards and games, went on scenic drives, clinked our wine glasses often, enjoyed our weekly restaurant haunts and laughed and had fun together.. Val thrived when she was having fun! She never stopped saying “I have a lot of life to live…I have places to go and people to see!” No doubt Val will continue this quest during her spiritual adventure…Until we meet again dear, dear friend…we will miss you!
Auntie Val,
You will be greatly missed and always remembered for your welcoming warmth, easy-going nature and hospitality. Growing up, my brother, James, and I always loved visiting you and Uncle Don on our summer road trips. We’d hide out in the cool basement between swims and diving contests with you, and you ALWAYS had ice cream on hand!
Last summer mom (Sharon) and I stopped in to visit you and the family. You ensured we were well fed and insisted we choreographed a synchronized swimming family pose (photo attached)! It made my heart happy to see how full of joy you are, and I can only hope that I continue to have that same joyfulness throughout my life.
Love you and will miss you greatly,
Helena
Val was a true treasure & is missed so much! I have wonderful memories of our visits to Kelowna & will always cherish the times we were able to share together. Sending my condolences & wishing the whole family all the very best through this very difficult time. Many GIANT hugs, Judy Sibson
Valerie was loved by many & will be missed all! I send my condolences & best wishes to the whole family during this very difficult time. Also sending big GIANT hugs to all. Judy Sibson
My sincere condolence to you Don and family. Val was and is a spirit that lives to give joy to all who knew how love life have faith and do it to the fullest. May God Comfort you all at this difficult time with a blanket of warm peace even if for a moment. I will miss her smile but never forget it. she is in my heart. Respectfully, Catherine Rice Former Tops member
My Sympathy Ritchie Family
Cathy Rice
Don and family. We are so sad to hear of val’s passing. She was a truly beautiful lady! My sister charlene and brother in law donald wilson always spoke of you two with love and respect! The visits we had with you both were a privelidge and we could always see why they held you in such high regard with so much love. R.i.p beautiful lady!