This memorial website was created in memory of our loved one, Joseph Perry Ritchie.
Memorial Service to be held at Christ Episcopal Church
Saturday, June 12, 2021 ~ 11am
4030 Manatee Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Joseph Perry, son of Dorris J. Ritchie and Felmay Bergeron (both deceased), was born in Amarillo, Texas. As a young man he joined the Navy and served as a Machinist Mate for six years after which he became a resident of Sarasota, Florida. He began his civilian career at the US Postal Service and subsequently owned and operated several businesses in the mechanical, landscaping and agricultural industries. He then chose a career in Real Estate as a broker and property manager. He later retired in Bradenton and continued to enjoy his passions which included: fishing, boating, chess, gardening and mechanical “projects”. He graciously volunteered his time and expertise to help family, friends and neighbors. He was an active member of Christ Episcopal Church. He was a devoted father and cherished the time he spent with his family, children and grandchildren. His unwavering strength and courageous spirit endures.
Joseph’s beloved siblings include: Larry, Doris, Delores, Charlotte (deceased), Eugene, Leroy, Sudie and Truda.
Joseph’s adoring family includes: Wife of 38 years, Carolyn. Children: Anthony (Debra) Ritchie, Glen (Stacy) Fosness, Trina (Stephen) Dremel, Douglas (Justine) Ritchie, Teresa (Shawn) Hencye and Cynthia (Jay) Ritchie. Grandchildren: Tara Ritchie, Lauren Ritchie, Erin and Drew Hencye, Kendall and Megan Fosness and Klara, Paxton and Leif Dremel.
He will forever be cherished and remembered by his family and all those whose lives he touched.
Donations in his honor may be made to:
The Gary Sinise Foundation -
We serve our Nation by honoring our Defenders, Veterans, First Responders, their families and those in need. https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/Friends of the Everglades -
Mission to preserve, protect, and restore the only Everglades in the world. https://www.everglades.org/Christ Episcopal Church of Bradenton -
Beloved Church Community4030 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton Fl 34205
https://christchurchswfla.org/Don’t think of me as gone away
My journey’s just begun,
Life holds so many facets
This earth is only one.
Just think of me as resting
From the sorrow and the tears
In a place of warmth and comfort
Where there are no days or years.
Please know that I am wishing
for you to know this day,
How nothing but our sadness
Can really pass away.
And think of me as living
In the hearts of those I touched…
For nothing loved is ever lost
And I was loved so much.
