William T. McRitchie

WILLIAM T. McRITCHIE VALPARAISO, IN
William T. McRitchie, 89, of Valparaiso passed away Saturday, December 24, 2016. He was born June 6, 1927 to Vincent H. and Lillian G. (Sims) McRitchie in Gary, IN. He grew up in Hobart and graduated from Hobart High School in 1945. Bill served in the Army Air Corps and was stationed in the occupational force in Germany. He earned his bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Valparaiso University. By profession, Bill was an accountant and served as Accountant/Controller for several companies. On August 20, 1966, Bill married the love of his life, Mary Beth (Reis) McRitchie. They celebrated 50 years of marriage in 2016. They lived in Valparaiso for over 40 years. Bill is survived by his wife, sister: Mary Sims- McRitchie; sons: John V. (Kristin) Shepherd and David A. (Carol) Shepherd; grandchildren: Kim (Jason) Lenz and Corey Shepherd; as well as three great- grandchildren: Arianna, Riley, and Bella. He leaves behind beloved dog, Dana, and cat, Gizmo Patricia. He is preceded in death by his parents, life-long friend, Bud Enslen, and the mother of his children, Betty Shepherd. Bill found his spiritual home at St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Student Center for Valparaiso University where he converted to Catholicism at age 77. Bill loved all animals and flowers. His favorite pastime was flower gardening. Bill will be dearly missed by his family and friends and will be remembered as a good man. Visitation will be from 9:00-10:30 AM on Friday, December 30, 2016 at St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Student Center, 1511 LaPorte Ave., Valparaiso, followed by a funeral mass at 10:30 AM, concelebrated by Fr. Chris Stanish and Fr. Rich Kozak. In lieu of flowers, contributions to St. Teresa of Avila or the charity of your choice would be appreciated.