David Ritchie Obituary

David Bruce Ritchie, 59, of Pagosa Springs, apparently died from exposure. He had wandered away from a family friend's house Aug. 5. His body was discovered Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2012, after an exhaustive search.

Mr. Ritchie was born Sept. 22, 1952, in Washington, D.C., the son of Ralph and Elizabeth Ritchie. He grew up an Army kid in places such as Germany, Virginia and Hawaii. He graduated from Denver Lutheran High School in 1970 and attended Mesa College in Grand Junction. There, he met his future wife, Cheryl, and they were married Oct. 7, 1978, in Grand Junction. Since that time, the family has lived in Grand Junction, Denver, Bayfield and very recently moved to Pagosa Springs.

Mr. Ritchie worked in various fields including, sales and real estate, for International Collectors Associates and Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory and in the insurance and investment industry.

"He truly had a heart for people and would do so much for his friends. He was a tenacious and aggressive mountain biker and skier. He also was a talented marksman and shooter. His passion for speed sports also extended into dirt bikes," his family said.

Mr. Ritchie's degree from Mesa College was in photography, and he often volunteered his time as a wedding or event photographer.

Mr. Ritchie was a faithful member of Bayfield Christian Church for more than 20 years. He served in church leadership, youth activities and outings, and as needed in Christian service.

Survivors include his wife, Cheryl Ritchie, of Pagosa Springs; his mother, Elizabeth Ritchie, of Littleton; daughter, Brekka Kidd, of Aurora; sons Daniel Ritchie of Littleton and Joseph Ritchie of Boulder; brothers Doug Ritchie of Englewood, John Ritchie of Gunnison and Bob Ritchie of Woodlands, Texas; a grandson; and many extended family and friends.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 22, 2012, at Pine Valley Foursquare Church, 1328 County Road 501 in Bayfield. There will be a potluck after the service.

Contributions in David Ritchie's name may be sent to the Ritchie family in care of Bayfield Christian Church, P.O. Box 771, Bayfield, CO 81122. Floral donations for the services or financial contributions are acceptable.