And if there's a golf course in heaven, there's a pretty good chance Ed has already found his way to the first tee.
Ed Ritchie
June 19, 1941 – November 2, 2026
Ed Ritchie, 85, of The Dalles, Oregon, passed away on November 2, 2026, surrounded by his family.
Ed was born on June 19, 1941, in Twin Falls, Idaho, to Guy and Helen Ritchie. He grew up in Twin Falls and graduated from Twin Falls High School before proudly serving his country in the United States Navy. He married Sharon Ritchie on March 15, 1964, and spent 53 wonderful years with her until her death in 2017.
In 1968, Ed and his family made their way to The Dalles, where he began working at Tony's
Town & Country. He eventually found his calling in the floor covering business and went on to open R & W Carpet Gallery. Through his years in business, Ed became a familiar face in the community, building relationships and friendships along the way.
While Ed worked hard, he certainly knew how to enjoy life. A longtime member of The Dalles Country Club, he loved spending time on the golf course, where the friendships and laughter were just as important as the game itself. Whether he was having a great round or one he'd rather forget, there was always another day on the course and another story to tell.
When he wasn't golfing, Ed enjoyed traveling and camping in his motorhome, always appreciating the opportunity to get away, explore new places, and enjoy life's adventures with his companion, Sandie Nelson.
Above all else, Ed was a family man. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife of 53 years, Sharon, until her passing in 2017, and a loving father and grandfather who would do absolutely anything for the people he loved. His granddaughters held an especially treasured place in his heart, and he couldn't have been prouder of them. Their accomplishments, adventures, and happiness meant the world to him.
Ed is survived by his daughters, Tina Hinshaw and her husband Joe and Heidi Leeson and her husband Chad, as well as his son, Ryan Ritchie; and his beloved granddaughters, Ashley Kumm, Kendyl Kumm, and Hannah Hinshaw.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Sharon Ritchie; his parents, Guy and Helen Ritchie; and his brother, Eugene Ritchie.
While Ed's final round has come to an end, the memories, laughter, and love he shared will live on in the hearts of everyone fortunate enough to have known him. And if there's a golf course in heaven, there's a pretty good chance Ed has already found his way to the first tee.
A celebration of life will take place at The Grill Steak & Seafood at The Dalles Country Club on Saturday, November 21, 2026, from 12:00 - 3:00 pm on a drop in basis. Come have a drink, mingle and have a final putt for Ed.
