Ernest "Daniel" Ritchie, 81 of Bella Vista, Arkansas, went to be with Jesus on November 15, 2025. Dan was born in Gambrills, Maryland to Ernie and Ethel Ritchie.

Dan is remembered for his strong faith in Jesus Christ, commitment to his family, and his duty to his country. He had a servant's heart and volunteered in many areas with a special passion for jail ministry. He will mainly be remembered for sharing the message of Jesus through music as expressed in following song which he loved to sing:

"There's something about a mountain

that reaches to the sky

that speaks of things eternal

of a hope that never dies

like a blessed rock of ages

Repose amid the din

I'll just look up to the mountains

and keep my trust in him."

He served in the Naval Reserves and spent his career as a Computer Scientist for the Department of Defense and Various Government contractors over the span of 45 years.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Ernie and Ethel Ritchie; son, Jeffrey Samuel; and sister, Putzi Geoghan.

He is survived by his wife, Carol (54 years of marriage); sons, Camilo (Jamie), Benjamin (Carmen), Jared (Clorissa); six grandchildren, Diamond, Lyric, Serenity, Savannah, Jeffrey, Samuel; sister, Carol Boyette; and brother, Buddy (Bonnie).

At a date to be determined Dan will be laid to rest at Ft Logan National Cemetery in Denver, Colorado.

Please make any donations in his honor to the Salvation Army.