Alta Lorraine Williams Ritchie

Alta “Lorraine” Ritchie, of Mineral, Washington, passed on January 8, 2016 at the age of 74 due to heart failure. Lorraine was born on January 26, 1941 in Baker City, Oregon to Mildred and Gordon Williams. In 1959, Lorraine married Jim Ritchie and they started their family. Lorraine became a teacher in 1980, earning her degree from Central Washington University. She spent her 24 year teaching career working in Anderson Island’s two room school house as a primary teacher in the kindergarten through 2nd grade class. She made a difference in the life of each child who entered her class. In retirement, she volunteered at the Morton Hospital gift shop once a week. Lorraine enjoyed watching her grandchildren play sports and was so proud of the people they have become. She loved music and passed that love to those around her. Lorraine was quick to smile and be the supportive rock when needed. She was generous with both her time and resources and cared deeply about her extended family.

Lorraine is survived by her husband Jim, son Jim, daughter-in-law Karen, daughter Becky, grandchildren Jimmy and Kirsten, mother Mildred Williams, sister Shirley, brother David, and finally the hundreds of friends and students she has touched through the years. The void left by her passing will linger, but the love she shared with those in her life will continue to inspire us as time continues to pass.

A celebration of life service is scheduled for 3:00pm, Saturday, January 23, 2016 at Mineral Lake Lodge, 195 Mineral Hill Rd., Mineral, WA 98355. Arrangements are under the direction of Brown Mortuary Service Morton Chapel in Morton, Washington. Memorial donations may be made to the Anderson Island Booster Club, 13005 Camus Street, Anderson Island, WA 98303.