Obituary of Jen Ritchie
RITCHIE, Jennifer (nee Sparling) passed away peacefully following a lengthy battle with cancer surrounded by family at the NHS-St. Catharines at the age of 47. Survived by her loving husband, Dan Ritchie; sons Wyatt and Aidan, parents Al and Faye Sparling, sisters Lisa (Dan) and Kerri (Steve); Mother-in-law Josephine and Father-in-Law Dan (Shirley) and brother-in-law Kevin (Jenn). Jen will be missed by many nieces and nephews and a large extended family as well deeply missed by her ‘Golden Girls’, Cathy, Lynn and Kalita.
Jen fought a valiant and inspiring battle against cancer for 9 years. Most important to her, is that during this time, her home was never a place of sadness. She continued to do a lot of living and loving through it all. She now leaves us all with immense love, memories and inspiration. “You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.”
The family wish to extend their gratitude to the great care and compassion given from all the ICU and the Walker Family Cancer Centre staff. With special thanks to Dr. Giesbrecht, Dr. Bisson and nurses Jamie, Lindsey and Deb. Jen will be fondly remembered by her Brock Nursing Department staff and coworkers, Sandy and Tammy.
In keeping with the family’s wishes, funeral arrangements have been entrusted with the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL HOME, 585 Carlton St., St. Catharines. Cremation has taken place and the family welcomes guests for a time of visitation on Friday, November 1st, 2024 from 2:00 – 4:00pm and 7:00 – 9:00pm. A Celebration of Jen’s Life will be held the following day, Saturday, November 2nd, 2024 at 12:00pm with doors open to guests at 11:00am., followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Walker Family Cancer Centre in memory of Jen.