Grandpa Jack

John James "Jack" Ritchie passed away in Idaho Falls on June 30, 2013, a month shy of his 88th birthday. Jack was born on July 30, 1925 to John Coop and Grace Ritchie in Rigby, Idaho. As a teenager, Jack joined the Navy and was stationed at the Farragut Naval Base in northern Idaho and in San Diego. 

After serving his country during WWII, Jack went to work at Montgomery Wards. During that time, Jack met Lois Helen Kearney. They were married in 1944. Jack and Lois had two children, Stephen J. (Ada) and James Craig (Kristine). As a young couple, Jack and Lois enjoyed dancing and socializing with their friends. Jack loved horses and skiing; he spent time doing these activities with his sons.

As a smart and honest businessman, Jack started his own business. Ritchie Tires. He was in business in Idaho Falls for 55 years.  Whenever his grandkids smell tires, they think of him.

Jack and Lois had seven grandchildren:  Joshua Stephen, Stephanie, Frederick Thomas, Benjamin Craig, Courtney, Bailey, and John Migel.  Jack and Lois enjoyed spending time in the summers at Redfish Lake and Heise Hot Springs with their grandchildren. Many years later, Jack bought a home in Alta, Wyoming and the grandchildren enjoyed spending time there with him.

Lois passed away in 1986. The next year Jack reacquainted with an old friend, Mary C. Speece. They were married on November 18, 1989. Mary has been a kind and loving wife to Jack for the last 24 years.

Jack has eight great grandchildren:  Darcy, Maxwell, Mylie, Eliza, Nolan, Blake, Lila, and Sterling. Papa Jack loved being around his great grandchildren and they could always put a smile on his face. He liked having the kids come to his house to visit or taking them to Leo's.

Jack remained active his entire life. He skied until his 80s, most often at Targhee. In fact, when he turned 75 he could ski free at Targhee. He didn't understand how they could offer this without losing so much money. Apparently, he thought that many 75 year olds still skied multiple times a week. He enjoyed hiking, especially in the Jackson and Jenny Lake area and visiting Yellowstone Park.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the staff in the ICU unit at EIRMC for their loving care and kindness. 

The family will receive friends at the downtown Wood's Funeral Home on Tuesday, July 2nd from 7-8:30 pm. A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, July 3rd at 11 am at Rose Hill Cemetery.