We are heart broken to announce that Douglas John Ritchie passed away in Monday, May 16, 2022, at the age of 77.  After several months of declining health, Doug peacefully passed with his beloved soulmate his wife Cynthia and their children at his side. Photo: Front row left to right; Charlie DeLaraques, Johnny Beiko, Brian Jensen , Gordy Irwin, Ivan Miller Back Row left to right; Ernie Rhind, Ed Lawrence , Ken Rhind, Robert Ritchie, Jimmy Campbell, Douglas Ritchie, George Ritchie , Martin Jensen

Douglas was born on the 9th month, 27th day of 1944 in Stonewall, MB to parents Alexander and Grace Irene Ritchie.  Doug was the youngest of two sons; he is survived by his brother Barry (Susan Ann) Ritchie. Douglas leaves behind three beautiful daughter he had with his first wife Helen. Kathy (Wayne) Piper and their loving children, Jennifer (Greg) Buckert, great grandchildren Gwendolyn and Gerald Buckert, Matthew (Jessica) and Kyle. Dee (Scott) Dooher and their family of fur babies. Candace Ritchie. Back in 1997, Douglas married his soulmate the greatest love of his life Cynthia on August 30, at Christina Lake. Douglas is survived by the children of his blended family with Cindy. Christopher VanCise, loving grandchildren; Jayden and Yatzier. Daughter Kristina (Chris) Shore, loving grandchildren; Tayler, Makayla, Kayson, and Weston. Daughter Stephanie (Jeff) Gladden and loving grandchildren Jaxton and Scarlett. Over Douglas' life time, he has had numerous adventures and unlimited stories under his belt to share.  One of his greatest memories was playing "Baseball".  Growing up going to school in Argyle he played softball from grade 3 to 6 or 7.  Then it was hardball they played every recess and noon hour weather permitting.  The back catcher position was Doug's calling.  He could throw to second base no problem on his knees. 1961 was an unforgettable year, they were 16 and unstoppable playing Tuelon for the championship back on August 21, 1961 on their home field of Argyle winning the series.

Doug extended his love of baseball to all who would listen.  His joy was teaching the kids to excel in every part of baseball especially back catching.  If you didn't know how to swing a bat you sure did when he was done showing you. Douglas and Cindy spent 30 plus years vacationing at Christina Lake, BC each summer with family and numerous friends.  Doug will always be remembered for his love of boating and waterskiing.  Doug wasn't an avid swimmer but that never stopped his love of waterskiing. He was still water skiing at the age of 76.  He was unstoppable loved cutting the wake seeing how far he could go side to side.  Trying to get even with the boat he was free and loved the feeling. Doug moved to Calgary in 1967 and complete his apprenticeship as a journeyman welder.  Due to many layoffs Doug became an owner operator if his own truck.  Throughout his driving career he covered many miles in Canada and the United States.  While he worked for Tri-Line he received many safety awards for miles drove.

Doug loved telling his stories and events that happened over the years if driving truck.  Many made you wonder how he ever did it.  Doug loved the open road especially when he stopped running South.  Doug decided it was time to retire when he left Signature Truck Lines August 31, 2021.

Doug loved yard work it definitely showed this past summer.  Finally a year home not spent traveling to the lake. Doug was able to complete everything he wanted over the years and was very proud to show his yard off.

Doug was a very kind man who always had a place in his heart for his pets.  As much as he missed all the ones before, his pup Zahra had stolen his heart.  She was his sweet heart even when she growled having to share his pillow at night.

During Doug's stay in hospital he only ever had kind words for all who looked after him.  Even all the poking and prodding he would still say thank you.  Doug's sense of humour continued with him right until his final days. He would get a twinkle in his eye you never knew what he was up to.  His whit often had us in tears then he would just laugh at us.

Douglas is going to be truly truly missed especially by his loving wife Cindy.  They were two peas in a pod, always knew what the other was thinking.  No matter how sick Doug was when Cindy kissed his lips he always had a kiss to give her back.  Doug was a true gentleman at heart always opening  the car doors and definitely made sure his wife came first.

The family would like to express their thanks to all for their messages and kindness shown during this enduring time.