Richard Elvis - Dick -

CLAYTON - Dick Ritchie 55 of Loop Road, Clayton passed away at home on Monday after many years of complications related to a motorcycle accident injury which confined him to a wheelchair since 1991. His mother, wife and a friend were at his bedside. Dick is survived by his mother, Bonnie Ritchie of Jonesboro, LA; wife, Karen A. Tripp and sons Kane Frison, Jason and Alan Ritchie; brother James Ritchie of New Bern and niece Jamie Ritchie; sister-in-law, Sharon Tripp of Zebulon. Dick was predeceased by his father, OraJackson Ritchie, Jr. Dick far outlived all of the doctors predictions of his life expectancy and he never let his handicap stop his pursuits and enjoyment of life. Dick had worked in construction for many years prior to his accident and when it came time to build his house and landscape his property he was an active participant. We were amazed to see him atop bulldozers and other land moving equipment clearing the land, forging a driveway fit for a king and digging a pond like no other. And if he was not actively participating, he was most definitely supervising every aspect. He continually refused to give up on life after countless hospital stays, surgeries, procedures and dire diagnoses. His family is grateful for all the past prayers and miracles surrounding Dicks numerous come backs over the years. His spirit was willing but his body could no longer sustain him. His determination to never give up, to never stop dreaming (and he dreamed very big), to never stop smiling was an inspiration to those of us who knew him. He will be sorely missed but joyfully remembered. The family will receive friends from 2:00 - 3:00 on Sunday, December 26th at Bryan Lee Funeral Home, Garner. A memorial service will follow at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation online at www.christopherreeve.org or by mail at 636 Morris Turnpike, Suite 3A, Short Hills, NJ 07078. Condolences can be made to bryan-leefuneralhome.com