Bradley Ritchie

BRAD RITCHIE HAGERMAN, IDAHO — Bradley James Ritchie, 52, peacefully died of heart failure on October 7, 2006, at the home of his beloved parents. Brad was born on March 26, 1954, in Idaho Falls, Idaho. He graduated from Skyline High School in 1972. He attended the University of Idaho and Boise State College, each for one semester. In 1973, Brad joined his father farming on the Bell Rapids Project. He worked for more than 20 years with his father and brother on the Ritchie farms. To this day, Brad’s reputation in the Hagerman Valley is “he marked out the straightest potato row of anyone.” Brad had two special marriages. His first was to Serena Halter of Minnesota. They had a daughter, Allyson, whom he carried in his heart every day. His second marriage was to Roxi Griggs of Glenns Ferry, a kind and loving friend. In 1990, Brad moved back to his favorite town, Idaho Falls. He worked for his cousin, Kurt Krupp, at ECSI Executone. Brad loved learning a new trade so much it eventually led him to return to school at the College of Southern Idaho. Brad earned an Associate of Science Degree in Network Support Technology in May of 2006 from CSI. Brad made the Dean’s List each semester, graduated with honors and is said to have been “an excellent student.” Upon graduation, Brad enjoyed employment with ConAgra Foods of Twin Falls. Brad had many interests and talents, but his favorites were photography, computers, golf and cooking. He liked nothing more than concocting a special marinade, grilling and eating a good steak and a home-grown baker with an ice cold glass of milk. He was an immaculate housekeeper, wore only perfectly pressed shirts and believed the room temperature should be a constant 65 degrees. Brad had a dry sense of humor that many didn’t get or appreciate, and he couldn’t figure that one out. He didn’t mind; he thought he was very funny. Brad didn’t like cats much; ironically, they loved him. He had an amazing ability to analyze cat thinking and behavior, and they must have known “he was such a good person.” Brad is survived by his parents, Oliver and Elaine Ritchie; his sisters, Kerry Ritchie-Campbell and Gaelene Ritchie Mueller; his brother, Robert Ritchie; his daughter, Allyson; many loving nieces and nephews; a sister; and a brother-in-law. The family wants to extend a special thanks to the many loving friends, teachers and colleagues that have supported Brad. Friends and family meant everything to him. Private Family Services are planned. Cremation is under the direction of Demaray Funeral Service in Gooding.