Demaray Funeral Service, Gooding, Idaho
Obituary: Oliver James Ritchie, "Rich," 87, a resident of Hagerman, was born September 17, 1928, in Ririe, Idaho. He passed away at home with his best friend and beloved brother, wife, and children by his side on May 22, 2016.

He was preceded in death by his son, Bradley James and a brother, William.

He is survived by his wife, Elaine; his brother Harold, "Rich 1," sister, Ivy; three children, Kerry Ritchie-Campbell, Gaelene Ritchie-Mueller and Robert Clint Ritchie; two sons-in-law, Mark Mueller and Don Campbell; one daughter-in-law, Christi Ritchie; eight grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. Oliver graduated from Rigby High School. Tribute goes to the Wayne Tibbetts' family of Lorenzo, who kept him working and fed so that he could pay his way to stay and finish high school. The skills learned from ranching, farming, hunting and lifeguarding laid the foundation for his adult life. Oliver and Elaine Krupp married in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple September 12, 1950. He once shared he first laid eyes on Elaine at a church dance when she was in the seventh grade and knew she was the one. They both loved to dance, thus "stepped together" through sixty-six years of marriage. They resided in Idaho Falls for twenty-two years raising four children. Rich drove truck for Ross McCowen and Cowboy Oil for more than ten years before he found his true calling, agriculture. After years as a partner of Foster and Associates out of the Osgood area, Rich expanded and seized the opportunity to move to the burgeoning Bell Rapids Project west of Hagerman. He eventually went solo. Ritchie Farms and Sons was established in 1974. Agriculture was a passion and it treated him well. His hard work was professionally recognized in the feature article and cover photo of Potato Growers of Idaho, December 1979. Rich served on the Directors' Board of Potato Growers of Idaho for two terms and was awarded Grower of the Year in 1989. Most cherished of those years were the planning and working alongside his sons, plus the many employees who became friends and family throughout the years of many harvests. Rich retired in 1993 from the Bell to "farm" the Ritchie residence and devote full time care to his wife, Elaine. Rich loved the outdoors. His cathedral was the mountains. Alongside his brother, Rich 1, a favorite escape was Copper Basin in the Pioneers. Horses were a passion starting in his early twenties. Hunting large game, photography and fishing were pleasures enjoyed with many friends and family. In these later years, 4-wheeling with his local buddies, Bob and Kenny, became a fading highlight. But, always, always, a true simple pleasure was a drive along the fields or the river with his girl, Elaine, riding shot-gun. A heartfelt note of love, admiration and gratitude to Harold, Rich 1, for a lifetime of unwavering support, love and kinship. There could never be a better brother. Deep love and gratitude to Gloria Pawson, her family and Kathy Raybourn. They are true angels. Their gentle care, unwavering devotion, good cooking and sincere friendship to Mom and Dad made it possible for them to have a quality of life together in the comfort of their home. In honor of Rich's request, no public services will be held. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Demaray Funeral Service – Gooding Chapel.