James Ritchie

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Ritchie, of Long Lake Wisconsin. Who left us peacefully on July 26, 2026, to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

He was born in Stambaugh, Michigan on August 14, 1947. James was the son of the late Everett and Edwina (Martin) Ritchie.

In 1967, Jim answered the call to serve his country, joining the U.S. Army as a Private with the 62nd Engineering Battalion. His valor and skill as a Construction Machine Operator during the Vietnam War earned him numerous commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with Bronze Service Star, the Gallantry Cross with Palm Leaf, and a Sharpshooter Medal. His service was a testament to his bravery and commitment to protecting a country he was proud to serve.

"May God bless all of us who served and died in the Jungles of that far away land"--James Ritchie

In 1969, Jim married the love of his life, Linda Boodry, with whom he shared 31 cherished years until her passing on July 28th, 2001. Together, they built a beautiful family and life, raising their two children, teaching them the values of hard work.

Jim is survived by his son, Adam (Elizabeth), grandfather to Jesse, Kelsea (Joe), Arizona and Sam, as well as a great-grandfather to Noah, Ezra, and Haiden.

After serving his country, marrying the love of his life, starting a family and a business, he decided to complete his education at Iron County Community Schools receiving his diploma in 1975.

Jim spent his formative years in the beautiful landscapes of Wisconsin, where he developed a love for the outdoors that would remain with him throughout his life bringing him to be a self-employed logger, working alongside his wife and son. Later, he opened a saw shop in Long Lake, Wisconsin, until his well-deserved retirement.

Throughout his life, Jim remained an avid outdoorsman, finding joy in hunting, fishing, and camping. He also enjoyed collecting antiques, coins, and baseball memorabilia. He was a musical man playing the harmonica, guitar, and the banjo, he also enjoyed singing at church.

In 2005, Jim was baptized by Rev. Dale Ritchie, at the Lost Lake in Wisconsin, an event that marked his deep spiritual commitment and connection to his faith.

His involvement in his community and his spiritual life brought him peace and fulfillment, enriched by the love of his close friends and family, including his cousin Dale (Cindy) Ritchie, dear friends Mike and Patti, whom he knew he could always count on.

Jim was also preceded in death by his brother, Rockford Ritchie; daughter, Lisa Ritchie; and sisters, Christine Barker, and Loretta Montambo.

He leaves behind a legacy of love through his surviving family members: his son, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sister Wanda (Dennis), brothers Brian (Kim), Jon (Lia), Mark (Barb), and Mike (Luayana), brother-in-law Roger Montambo, and sister-in-law Sawnie Ritchie.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff at the Tomahawk nursing home for their compassionate care during the last year and during Jim's final days.

Jim will be deeply missed; his memory will be cherished in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Martin Cemetery where the West Side Veterans will accord Military Rites.