Dr. William Michael "Mike" Ritchey

William Michael Ritchey March 12, 1945- March 29, 2016 William Michael Ritchey, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, mentor, and friend, passed away on March 29, 2016 at his home in Mason, Texas at the age of 71. Mike was welcomed into heaven and reunited with the love of his life, Mary with whom he shared 33 wonderful years. Mike was also preceded in death by his parents Dr. and Mrs. W. H. Ritchey of Bryan, Texas. He is survived by daughters Shannon Dezell and her husband Sean, Jennifer Wofford and her husband Kurt, and JoLynn Joyce and her husband Wade Everitt, along with grandchildren Haley Dezell, Hannah Dezell, Heather Dezell, Hudson Dezell, Otto Wofford, and Ivan Wofford. He is also survived by his siblings David Ritchey and wife Bonnie, Janet Cable and husband Sam, and George Ritchey and wife Kay and many adoring nieces and nephews. Mike graduated from Stephen F. Austin High School in Bryan, Texas and was a graduate of the Class of 1967 Core of Cadets at Texas A&M University. He then graduated from Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine in 1971. After earning his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine degree, he entered the Air Force as a commissioned officer where he received the Vietnam Service Medal and the National Defense Service Medal for his years of service in Vietnam. Dr. Mike Ritchey was a well known member of the Huntsville community where he was the founding partner of Ritchey-Moore Veterinary Clinic. He cherished being able to work along side Dr. Mickey Moore taking care of many animals (and their owners) in Walker County. He never met a stranger and developed many wonderful relationships. He was an active supporter of the Walker County Fair and mentored many youth in 4-H as well as young students who wanted to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. Following his retirement in 2011, Mike and Mary moved to Mason County and built their dream home on top of the hill, which they named Miracle Ranch where they enjoyed retired life. He made many wonderful friends and became active in the community as a member of the Lyons Club and The River of Life Church. Mike was a true friend who was known for his gregarious personality, his loyalty to family, friends and community, and his dedication to his Lord Jesus Christ. He left a lasting impression on all those who met him and will be missed dearly. A casual gathering will be held at his home in Mason on Thursday, March 31st at 6:00 pm. A memorial service will be held at Northside Baptist Church in Huntsville, Texas on Saturday April 2, 2016 at 10:30 am (address: 1207 FM 980, Huntsville, Texas 77320). In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to River of Life Church in Mason, Texas (address: 217 East College Avenue, Mason, Texas 76856) or Kanakuk Ministries (address: Attn: Crystal Mitchell 1353 Lakeshore Drive, Branson, MO 65616.) Our entire family sends a heartfelt thank you to all for your kindness, support, love and prayers.

Dr. William Michael "Mike" Ritchey

March 12, 1948 - March 29, 2016