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Ian Robert Ritchie
January 24, 1959 - May 25, 2021
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Befitting his Scottish roots, Ian Robert Ritchie was born January 24 — the day before Robbie Burns, Scotland’s national bard on January 25. The day before but two centuries later — to the year — in 1959 to Nancy & Robert Ritchie not long after they immigrated to Vancouver from Scotland.
The Ritchies returned to Scotland to live in Dumbarton where Ian started school. Younger brother Fraser was born in Scotland before the family returned to Canada and settled in West Vancouver where Ian spent his formative years.
After graduating West Vancouver Secondary School Ian attended BCIT to become a Forest Technician, graduating to work for BCFP and MacMillan Bloedel planning forestry layouts up and down the Central BC Coast and wilderness locales of Vancouver Island and Haida Gwai.
Attacked by a sow grizzly bear after encountering its twin cubs on the Central Coast in the early 1980s, Ian decided to switch to a safer profession.
After obtaining his Criminology Degree at SFU Ian embarked on a policing career that began with the RCMP in Saskatchewan, followed by uniformed duties with the Oak Bay Police Department, culminating in a 22-year career with the Saanich Police Department. Ian concluded his policing career by serving with the provincial Integrated Road Safety Units.
Ian and his family lived in Shawnigan Lake for many years and through their sons developed a long association with Shawnigan Lake School — such that in retirement he worked in the school’s transportation department, staggering similar duties with Cowichan School District No. 79.
A consummate people person, Ian volunteered with the Duncan Food Bank and Duncan Community Living and raised support for and rode in the 2005 Cops for Cancer Tour de Rock — volunteering backup team support in subsequent Tour de Rock rides.
Condolences
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From: H.W. Wallace Cremation & Burial Centre
H.W. Wallace Cremation & Burial Centre staff send our condolences to family and friends.
From: Carol-Ann Rolls
Relation: Volunteering
My deepest condolences to Ian’s family. I met Ian when he was a rider in the Tour De Rock. We connected again when he volunteered as a grocery shopper for Volunteer Cowichan’s Safe Seniors Strong Communities program when covid first hit the community. His support to the seniors in need of groceries was very much appreciated by the organization as well as the seniors he helped.
From: Bill Bellwood
Relation: Policed with Ian.
You were a good man Ian and you will be missed by many, my friend. I hear there are some great slopes to ski up there! RIP
From: Kelly Schellenberg
Relation: Initially through forestry summer employment but ultimately lifelong friends
I met Ian years ago when we were both aspiring timber cruisers for BCFP. Ian had a calculated sense of humour that complemented that of his partner in crime Tim M. It was later on that I met Margaret and since she and Ian were an item; I was happy to reclaim an old friendship. Although we connected infrequently; we connected well. We enjoyed family forestry sessions at Mesachie Lake, visits on Mt. Washington and other random visits. Ian was caring and compassionate. I recall in 2016 when I was walking from the visitor lot at Departure Bay to the ferry; I must have looked as forlorn as I felt. My father was dying of cancer at the time and I was headed over to visit. Ian insisted that he drive me the 400 meters to the terminal. He knew I was hurting and listened to my grief. I will never forget that kindness.
Rest In Peace, my friend. You will be missed.
From: Rosemary Michie
Relation: Friend
Dear Margaret and family, I was so sorry to hear of Ian’s sudden passing. One of my favourite memories of Ian is of counting hot lunch money for pizza and hot dogs in the Discovery School staff room, he being the only Dad amongst all the Mums. It was always a pleasure to run into Ian and his bright smile in the Village. He will be sorely missed in Shawnigan. My heart goes out to you. Rosemary
From: Lon Wood
Relation: Friend
Condolences Margaret and your fine young men on losing a one-of husband and dad who with sensitivity and compassion wholeheartedly embraced the joys and sorrows of all he knew and met.
As friends we turned to The Warmlands outdoors almost daily to leave the curse of Covid behind in our dust by hiking, kayaking, e-biking more than 1,000 kilometres; always pausing for good coffee and conversation — and sometimes a shared cinnamon bun after pedalling to breakfast on the dock at Genoa Bay.
In my books, Ian’s life was short but a full one nonetheless , he making that “difference” to leave the world a better place.
Best friends are rare. Ian is one to be loved, missed and remembered.always.
From: John Cook
Relation: Friend from years gone by.
I was shocked and saddened to see the notification of Ian’s recent passing. He has gone to join his kin and will watch over you forever. Margaret, Ian’s spirit will always be with you and the boys. Thinking of you all.
From: Betty Francisty
Relation: I worked with Ian at SD #79.
I was saddened to hear of Ian’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with the family 🙏
From: Linda Milne
Relation: Friend
Margaret and Sons,
I am so very sorry for your loss of Ian. It is heartbreaking- I hope you are surrounded by the love and support of family & friends.
Sincere sympathy.
Linda Milne
From: Hugh and Leslie Williams
Relation: Co-worker at SPD.
Ian was a wonderful co-worker who always had a smile. He was full of compassion and a true gentleman and we are truly saddened by his passing. Condolences to his family.
Service Schedule
Private service arrangements have been made.
Memorial Gifts
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