Jennifer “Jen” Ritchie (nee Sparling)
1977 – 2024
Jennifer “Jen” Ritchie, beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2024, following a courageous nine-year battle with cancer. Jen was surrounded by her family at NHS-St. Catharines at the age of 47.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Dan Ritchie, and her cherished sons, Wyatt and Aidan. Jen is lovingly remembered by her parents, Al and Faye Sparling; sisters Lisa (Dan) and Kerri (Steve); her mother-in-law, Josephine; father-in-law, Dan (Shirley); and her brother-in-law, Kevin (Jenn). She will be deeply missed by her nieces, nephews, extended family, and her dear friends, “the Golden Girls” Cathy, Lynn, and Kalita.
Jen’s strength and resilience were inspiring to everyone who knew her. Despite her illness, she filled her home with love and joy, creating beautiful memories for her family and friends. Her colleagues at the Brock Nursing Department, Sandy and Tammy, remember her with admiration, and her family is grateful for the care provided by the ICU and Walker Family Cancer Centre, with special thanks to Dr. Giesbrecht, Dr. Bisson, and nurses Jamie, Lindsey, and Deb.
A time of visitation will be held at George Darte Funeral Home (585 Carlton St., St. Catharines) on Friday, November 1, 2024, from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. A Celebration of Jen’s Life will take place on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at 12:00 p.m., with doors opening at 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow the service. For those unable to attend in person, a livestream will be available via the following link: Livestream Link.
