JUDITH SIGNY RITCHIE

Condolences & Memories (26 entries)

• It is with great sadness that we have learned of your loss, our thoughts and prayers are with your family. - Posted by: Cassandra Grosenick and Grosenick family (Student, and friend) on: Apr 07, 2014

• I was saddened to learn of Judy's passing. I first met her when my boys were very young. She taught them music for many years. My children were priviledged to have had the opportunity to spend time with Judy. Years later, she convinced me to take voice lessons, something I would never have done without her encouragement. Her positive energy and spirit as well as her commitment to music will always be remembered. Her perpetually cheerful voice and constant smile will be missed by all. My condolences to her family. - Posted by: Fiona Webster Mourant (Friend) on: Apr 04, 2014

• Harry and family, I was saddened to hear of Judy's death. Whenever I think of her I always remember her smiling and her beautiful voice. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family at this time. - Posted by: Faith Kopisky (Member of Sparling Congregtion) on: Mar 24, 2014

• Harry, I am so sorry to hear of Judy's passing. I worked for the Ritchie family for many years. You couldn't have asked for a nicer person. She always welcomed me into their home, as if I was family. Judy taught my two kids, Daryl and Jena, piano for many years. She will be deeply missed and never forgotten in our hearts. Our deepest sympathy to Harry, Matthew, Valdine and Eric. - Posted by: Nellie Fediuk and Family (Friend) on: Mar 22, 2014

• We first met Judy when our son Devon was just four. It was clear from the start that she was going to be a huge part of our lives. There was something magical about her ability to interact with and share her passion for music with those so young. Our daughter Dallas joined in when she too reached four. Judy inspired and spread her love of music and life for the next 14 years. I'm sure Erik and Harry both thought we lived at their house! She encouraged and supported their musical endeavors not only through her teaching but by coming out to most all of their performances whether they were piano, musical theatre or various band performances. Up until Jan. 28, 2014 Judy was still teaching Dallas and gave so generously of her precious time. Judy will always have a place in our hearts and be a part of our family. We miss you dearly Judy and our thoughts go out to your family and all those who were so lucky to have had you be a part of their lives. - Posted by: Shelley Wilson Simon Gillingham (Friend and Teacher) on: Mar 20, 2014

• My deepest sympathy Harold & family. I will be thinking of you. - Posted by: Wilmar Chopyk (Co worker) on: Mar 19, 2014

• I sang in the Sparling United Church choir with Judy. We were both sopranos, but I certainly could never hit the same notes as Judy. She had a lovely voice and a beautiful soul. My deepest sympathies to Harry, her family and dear friends. - Posted by: Karin (Wilson) Barbaro (Previous member of Sparling United Church) on: Mar 18, 2014

• Our family was saddened to read of Judy's passing. Was there ever a more joyful, loving and dedicated teacher than Judy? Judy taught my children more about their great-grandfather, W.H. Anderson, and his music than they would have known otherwise. We are very grateful for this. It was a sad day when piano and voice lessons came to an end as did the early mornings and supper hours at the Ritchie house. Our condolences to Harry and family. - Posted by: Karen Bieber (Mother of Jayne and Allan, students of Judy) on: Mar 17, 2014

• Judy was my voice teacher for many years. However, she was much more than that to me - Judy was a constant in my life. No matter what had happened in the world outside, lessons with Judy were predictable. I knew that every time I walked through her door, I’d find her sitting at her piano with a big smile, warm greeting, and eagerness to try whatever new song I’d brought with me. One of my favorite memories happened when Judy was trying out a new granola recipe. We stopped mid lesson for a quick taste. It was so delicious, that we ended up shoveling granola into our mouths as we sang. I don’t think we fully got through a song that day as we laughed at how ridiculous we looked. While all of my memories of Judy bring me happiness and laughter, I am heartbroken at this great loss. - Posted by: Sarah Petty (student) on: Mar 17, 2014

• Harry, My deepest condolences to you and your family at this sad time. We were blessed at Sparling to have Judy share her wonderful gift of music with us for so many years. Her song will live on in many hearts. - Posted by: Judy McKelvey (member Sparling United Church) on: Mar 16, 2014

• We had the privilege of having Judy and her husband Harry in our church family when Harry was the minister at our church in Roland.Judy will be remembered for her friendly smile, her amazing ability to play piano and her beautiful singing voice. Our condolences to Harry and the rest of her family. - Posted by: Beth & Barry Bartley (Members of Roland United Church) on: Mar 14, 2014

• I am so saddened to hear that Mrs. Ritchie has passed. She was my voice and piano teacher from 1995-2002ish. Her love and dedication to teaching left a lasting impact on me. She was always so full of joy. My thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Ritchie and her children. - Posted by: Justin Hintz (Student) on: Mar 13, 2014

• I first met Judy at the Y a few years ago. We went to aquafit classes together. We also shared a love for music. She was always cheerful despite the challenges she faced. This courageous lady touched many hearts and will be missed. - Posted by: Karen Hendin (Friend) on: Mar 12, 2014

• Very saddened to hear that Judy has left us. She was a pleasure to have as a teacher to my son. She taught him a lot. He says he could not sing the way he does now, if it was not for Judy. You will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. - Posted by: Bev Dueck (Taught my son) on: Mar 12, 2014

• I am saddened to hear of Mrs. Ritchie's passing. I was so fortunate to have her as my voice and piano teacher. She was my inspiration in becoming a elementary music teacher. Her kindness, amazing talent, and support will be forever remembered. I am so fortunate to have known her and studied with her, and will cherish that she was a part of my wedding ceremony, and was able to adjudicate my choirs 2 years ago. It meant so much to me that she could be there to see the product of her teaching. My heart goes out to her family. - Posted by: Sheryl Holmes (former student) on: Mar 12, 2014

• I remember how happy my daughter, Sarah, was when I took her to music lessons with Judy. Sometimes I tried to find an excuse to hang around for awhile, relaxing on Judy's cozy sofa and watching her smiling face. It all felt so warm and comforting, kind of like coming home to mom. Rest in Peace, Dear Judy! - Posted by: Gina Petty ((Friend)) on: Mar 11, 2014

• Our condolences to Harry and his family and to Judy's siblings and their families. Judy was a long time friend and even if we didn't see each other for many years it was like yesterday when we got together. She fought a tough fight and is now at rest. May all those wonderful memories help you all through this time of grieving. With sincere sympathy, Tom and Alfreda Duffy - Posted by: Alfreda Duffy (Friend) on: Mar 11, 2014

• Judy was so special and I was blessed to know her. She had an infectious smile and was a treasure to me - she brought music and love in so many ways to those who knew her. I will miss her very much. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. - Posted by: Mary Thliveris (Friend) on: Mar 11, 2014

• Harry, I am so sorry to hear of Judy's death. I remember the chalkboard in the George Bryce classroom saying, "Our Harry is going to marry". James is right - it was so long ago. I hope the richness of the years between will carry you well. You will be in my prayers, and in the Sunday prayers at Minto. God's blessings on you in this sorrowing time. - Posted by: Lynette Miller () on: Mar 11, 2014

• My condolences to the family. I know Judy through the Y Buddies. Whenever she was well enough to come to aquafit or for coffee afterwards, she was always a welcome addition to our group. She was always smiling, whatever was happening in her life. I know she fought a long courageous battle and she has earned her rest. Nevertheless she has touched my life and I will miss her as will everyone at the Y. - Posted by: Donna Friesen (Friend) on: Mar 11, 2014

• Harry, although our paths crossed only a few times I have appreciated you and want you to know that as you grieve this loss that I will be remembering you. Larry Hirst - Posted by: Larry Hirst (Chaplaincy colleague) on: Mar 11, 2014

• Harry, Joe Ball just let me know tonight of Judy's death. I'm so sorry for your loss. I have no idea what to say except hang on to the people who love you, and let them hold you. I remember Judy's smile and giggle…it was a long time ago, and we were all so young. Blessings, old friend, and trust God. james - Posted by: James Strachan (Colleague and Friend) on: Mar 10, 2014

• I cherish the joy of singing together in Choir, especially the "Hallelujah Chorus" and the "Rhythm of Life" and the memorable fun-filled dinner theatres and shows. "The Song is over, but the melody lingers on." - Posted by: Donna Marsh (Member of Sparling United Church) on: Mar 10, 2014

• Harold and family .... Judy was a very special lady and our prayers go out to you on her passing. It's always a shock to see the passing of someone we know. Please know that our thoughts are with you as you struggle to deal with your tragic loss. I am so so sorry that I can't be at her service. We are presently in Arizona and won't be home until Apr. 17th. Our condolences to you. - Posted by: Coralie Bornais (Friend) on: Mar 10, 2014

• Judy was an amazing music teacher to my three children, Colin, Mathieu and Nicole and they loved her beyond words. Judy will hold a special place in all our hearts and we will miss her dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with husband Harry and family. - Posted by: Venetia Bourrier ((Friend)) on: Mar 10, 2014

• Judy was an amazing music teacher to my three children, Colin, Mathieu and Nicole and they loved her beyond words. Judy will hold a special place in all our hearts and we will miss her dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with husband Harry and family. - Posted by: Venetia Bourrier ((Friend)) on: Mar 10, 2014