Obituary of Alicia Anne Ritchie
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Alicia (nee Lesia Gaida) at home, surrounded by her family on September 9th, 2021. Beloved wife of 37 years to Randy, devoted mother to Trisha (Greg Floris), Josh, adoring Grama to Lucy and Sydney Floris. Alicia is survived by her brother Mike (Sophie Gaida), and her sister-in-law Mary Gaida. Predeceased by her parents Nick and Margaret Gaida, and her brother Steve Gaida. She will be missed by her extended family in Rochester, Calgary, and Kirkland Lake.
Alicia was a dedicated employee of the Ukrainian Credit Union for 25 years. She was proud of her Ukrainian heritage, especially her love of cooking Ukrainian dishes like borscht and paska for her family. She loved spending time with her grandchildren, making memories. She was, and always will be a lasting influence in their lives. Alicia loved her shopping trips with Trisha, in search of a bargain, mostly gifts for her grandkids. She loved any opportunity to spend time outside, out for walks with Josh, spending time on the water kayaking, and travelling to tropical destinations with family and friends. She had a heart for animals, especially her fur babies, often joking she preferred animals to people. She enjoyed her outings with her close circle of friends. We wish to extend a special mention to her sister-in-law Mary Gaida, who helped guide Alicia through the hard times, and helped her live life to the fullest. Her quick wit, thoughtfulness, and optimism will be missed by all who knew her.
Special thanks to Dr. Ribic for her care, compassion and friendship to Alicia throughout the years. Thank you to the oncology team at the St. Catharines Hospital, especially to
Dr. Lee and the nurses on 3A.
A visitation will take place on Sunday September 12, 2021 from 4-7pm at George Darte Funeral Home, 585 Carlton St., St. Catharines. Panachyda (Prayers) will take place at 7:15pm at the funeral home, and will be livestreamed from the funeral home website for those who wish to attend virtually. A private family service will take place on Monday, September 13th at 10:30am St. Cyril and St. Methodius Church, and will be livestreamed from their website. If desired, donations made in Alicia’s memory to St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton: Nephrology Department, or St. Cyril and Methodius Church Building Fund would be appreciated by her family.
Livestream Link for Panachyda: https://youtu.be/ffhgQLke0Uo