Patrick Aloysius Ritchie, Chief Master Sergeant, USAF (Ret), passed away peacefully in the presence of his family on April 25, 2023.
Pat was born in Jersey City, New Jersey in 1945. He grew up in Miami, Florida where he met his high school sweetheart and future wife, Margaret “Peggy” Ann Shamus. In 1965, he joined the United States Air Force and served his country for 23 years, retiring in Niceville, Florida. For the next 40 years, he made the community of Niceville his home. He was an active member of the Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church and he held multiple leadership roles in the Knights of Columbus, ultimately serving as their Grand Knight. He also served on the City of Niceville Planning Commission. Last but not least, Pat had a deep passion for golf. He loved the camaraderie, playing year-round golf with his family, friends, and co-workers. Golf was a perfect channel for his spirit of competition.
Pat is preceded in death by his father Joseph Sr., his mother Elizabeth, his sister Judy, and his brother Joseph Jr. He is survived by his wife Peggy, his four children, Patrick (Shannon), Michelle (Joe), TJ (Sharon) and Doug (Cindy). In addition, he leaves behind eight grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and too many loving nieces and nephews to count.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Niceville Catholic Outreach.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Patrick Aloysius Ritchie, please visit our floral store.
Niceville Catholic Outreach
1200 Valparaiso Boulevard, Niceville FL 32578
Email: NCO@holynamechurch.org
Web: https://holynamechurch.org/nco