Stephan Colton Ritchie
December 13, 2024
Stephan Colton Ritchie, beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2024. A man of extraordinary love, dedication, and kindness, Stephan leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Stephan is survived by his wife Diane, sons Colton and Wilem, stepdaughters Alexis, Olivia, Sienna, Aria, and Hannah, his Aunt Dorothy, and cousins Becky and Dustin. Predeceased by his mother Christa.
Stephan and I built the most beautiful family together, one filled with deep love, laughter, adventure, and memories that will last forever. Our bond was something I had only dreamed of. From the moment we met, the connection was instant and undeniable. From that day forward, we never spent a second apart — always holding hands, sitting side by side, and constantly reminding each other how incredibly lucky we were to have found one another. I lost my best friend and soulmate. My one.
To Stephan, family came first, always. I’ve never seen a father love his sons more than he loved Colton and Wilem. From teaching them the importance of kindness, loyalty, and adventure, to actively supporting them in every pursuit, Stephan was their steadfast guide and biggest cheerleader. He was deeply passionate about coaching, whether it was baseball, where he guided young players with patience and enthusiasm, or dirt biking, where he not only helped his sons improve their riding but shared in the thrill and joy of the sport. He loved every moment of coaching and being involved in their lives, from the field to the trails. As the best girl dad to his stepdaughters — Alexis, Olivia, Sienna, Aria, and Hannah — he was equally devoted, participating in baking, nail polish contests, coaching sports, and late-night board games full of belly laughs. No matter how exhausted he was, Stephan always answered the phone when his children called, and he started every single day with an “I love you” message to each of us. He never missed a single moment in their lives and was always the loudest voice cheering them on with every success.
Stephan was the epitome of what it means to show up for others. He put people first, always, whether family, friends, or even strangers, and he understood the value of life’s simple, joyful moments. He made it his mission to be part of the “lollipop moments” in life, taking time to connect, to listen, and to bring light to every situation. Whether it was through his generous involvement in the community or his quiet acts of kindness, he left an indelible mark on everyone he met.
Stephan knew how to have fun. He loved riding his Harleys, sipping on gin, and enjoying a cold beer. He had a passion for Jeeps, always customizing them to create an adventure for anyone who braved being his passenger. He also loved dirt biking, and it was a thrill for him to share that passion with his family, exploring new trails and riding together.
Stephan’s legacy is one of love, devotion, and unwavering commitment to those who mattered most. His impact will be felt by all who were lucky enough to know him — family, friends, and his General Dynamics team. While we will miss him more than words can express, we take comfort in the beautiful family we built together and the countless memories we shared.
Stephan, we will always carry your love with us.
A celebration of life will be held at Northview Funeral Chapel, 1490 Highbury Ave North, London, Ontario on Wednesday, January 8, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Donations in Stephan’s memory may be made to Jumpstart, a charity dedicated to helping children from families in need access sports and recreational activities. Jumpstart provides financial assistance to ensure that every child has the opportunity to experience the benefits of sport, from building confidence and teamwork to staying active and engaged. Through Stephan’s support of this cause, his legacy will continue to empower kids and families, helping them create their own moments of joy and achievement.
Leave a tribute for Stephan Colton Ritchie
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My condolences to the family. I had worked with Stephan at GD. He spoke often of his boys and their baseball. His strong work ethic, attitude and sense of humour truly made him a pleasure to work with. May he rest in peace. Forever missed. Forever remembered.
Dear Colton, Wilem, Diane & Family, I am deeply sorry for your loss. Steph meant so much to so many people and we all knew how much he loved each of you. It has been my sincere pleasure to be a work colleague of his for several years. I wish I had the words to express how great it was to know him. I can say without doubt he is missed here at GD every day, it will never be quite the same without him. Most sincerely, Cindy Bryson
We are so sad to hear of Stephan's passing. We had so many fun baseball years with the Ritchie family. Colton and Wilem you are in our thoughts during this difficult time. Our deepest condolences to all of Steph's family and friends.
Stephan and I became friends while working at GD. His smile and sence of humor was a joy to be around. My thoughts are with the family through this difficult time.
My sincere condolences to all of the Ritchie family and friends for the loss of Stephen . May God give all of you strength and peace at this time . God Bless 🙏 Henk Kampers
Our deepest condolences. Coach Ritchie was an inspiration for our son while playing EBBA baseball. A tragic loss.
You truly were one of a kind!! A good friend,a great dad…meeting you many years ago when our boys played EBBA together then to have them play together with the Ontario Expos was great watching the boys grow up together and having you as their assistant coach cheering them on all the way!! You are missed Ritchie and will never be forgotten 💜
We were so saddened to hear of the loss of Stephan. We had some great years having Steph coach Ryan in baseball. Our love and deepest sympathies to Colton and Wilem on this tragic loss.
My sincerest condolences to Stephan's family and friends during such an unexpected and difficult time. Stephan was one of the most likeable, kind, and genuine people I've had the pleasure to work with. He was always willing to help, provide kind words to pick others up around him, or listen to those in need. He came by his great character naturally, and it's an immense loss that he's no longer with us. Wishing his family the very best.
Stephan, a treasured work colleague. A man whose perpetual and infectious smile, followed with quick witted comments and positive vibes. A real "Can Do" attitude and true Gentleman. Our condolences with the Ritchie family loss. Treasure the memories and moments as his legacy.
A donation has been made to Jumpstart. Message from the donator: Paul and I feel fortunate to have shared time with Stephan, he quickly and effortlessly became part of the family. We will miss him. With love and respect, Liz and Paul A donation has been made to Jumpstart in memory of Stephan Ritchie by Liz and Paul AmRhein.
A donation has been made to Jumpstart. Message from the donator: With deepest sympathy and in loving memory of Stephan Colton Ritchie, Lori & George Bomanski
The world lost a gem! Stephan was a trusted friend and colleague who will be missed so, so much! To Stephan's family, I can't even imagine what you are going through. My heartfelt sympathies to you on this tremendous loss.
Stephan was incredible in so many ways. He was so many things. Stephan made his mark. Stephan was deeply loved. Stephan was kind and calm. He was wise. He was genuine. He had soo much to offer. He had great advice and incredible wisdom. He was accepting and there for me. He took me in as part of his family when I moved to a new place without any loved ones. Stephan was family. Stephan will be greatly missed. The world loses a great man.
Colton and Willem, Jaden and I are so very sorry to hear of the loss of your dad. You boys both know we have nothing but so so many laughs and great memories from baseball years to hold on to. Our deepest condolences to you and your family.
Stephan was an amazing human being,he was a close friend that anybody could love he was extremely funny always had me laughing and joking and always had a smile on his face and a smile on my face as well,I will never forget him he always went out of his way for you no matter what it was he was a kind of guy that you will always put you first.I have a spot in my heart that will never forget him he will be greatly missed and never forgotten I love you Richie!Rip Buddy.
Services for Stephan Colton Ritchie
Celebration of Life will be held at:
Northview Funeral Chapel
1490 Highbury Avenue North,
London, Ontario
January 8, 2025 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm
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If you wish to make a donation, please consider one of the charities listed below. You will be taken to the charity's website to process your payment.
My sincerest condolences to Stephan's family. I was shocked and saddened to hear of Stephan's passing. I met Stephan as a member of the Crumlin Sportsmen's Association. Stephan made it easy to like him. He was kind, helpful and of course funny. He brightened everyone's day. We shared a few motorcycle rides in and around the area as well and I was looking forward to more. I will miss him and hope that you all find comfort in the memories you have with Stephan.
~ Tim Marchand