Call now for immediate attention: 772-999-5547
Call now for immediate attention: 772-999-5547
Call now for immediate attention: 772-999-5547
Call now for immediate attention: 772-999-5547
Dale Walton Ritchie, 93, of Vero Beach, Florida, passed away on June 15, 2025. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, to George Marsh Walton and Marion Adams Walton, Dale lived a life marked by faith, family devotion, and community service.
Dale graduated from Shaker Heights High School in Shaker Heights, Ohio. She attended Virginia Intermont College before transferring to Kent State University where she earned a degree in education. She began her career as an elementary school teacher in Columbus, Ohio and dedicated herself to nurturing young minds before stepping away from teaching to raise her three sons. After her children were grown, she returned to the workforce in the late 1970s as a unit secretary at Boca Raton Community Hospital.
On September 4, 1954, Dale married William D. Ritchie at Christ Church in Shaker Heights. Together, they built a family and shared over six decades of marriage before William’s passing. In 1973, they moved to Boca Raton, Florida, and later settled in Vero Beach in 1986 after William’s retirement where they enjoyed their golden years together.
Dale was initiated into Alpha Chi Omega during her college years and remained dedicated to the sisterhood throughout her life. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Vero Beach and found fellowship through her involvement with the Scottish Society of the Treasure Coast. She was formerly a member of The Moorings Club and the Exchange Club of Vero Beach.
An accomplished needlepoint artist, Dale created treasured heirlooms that will be cherished for generations. Her exquisite Christmas stockings, pillows, chair covers, belts, and other handcrafted creations were expressions of her love for family and friends.
Dale is survived by her three sons: William W. Ritchie (Lenora), Peter A. Ritchie, and Andrew D. Ritchie (Jennifer); her beloved grandchildren Jackson, Liam, and Drew; her sister Lynn Reed; nephew Dick Reed; niece Lee Reed; and cousin, Stephanie McTaggart. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.
Dale’s legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched as an educator, the beautiful works of art she created with her hands, and the values she instilled in her family. She will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to those she held dear.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 520 Royal Palm Blvd., Vero Beach, FL 32960.
Our caring professionals are here to assist you and your family during this difficult time. We are available 24 hours, 7 days a week to assist in immediate arrangements or pre-arrangements.
Lydia Lander
June 24, 2025, 2:46 pm
My husband, Michael, and I worked at The Moorings, where we met Mrs. Ritchie. Twenty years ago, when she found out I was expecting, she immediately set to work on a Christmas stocking for our daughter, Cecelia. It was such a kind and thoughtful gesture.
Over the years, we would occasionally run into Mrs. Ritchie, and have a nice time catching up. Cecelia’s stocking still hangs above our fireplace each Christmas, and Michael and I always raise a toast in her honor.
We send you peace and comfort during this time.
Cherie Harris Williams
June 26, 2025, 4:22 am
Dale and my Mom, Barbara Schaaf Kortwich were lifelong friends for more than 85 years… we called her Aunt Dale growing up! She was so kind and always interested in what we were doing, and so good to keep up with Mom… I know they are gabbing away in heaven! We are holding you close in our thoughts and prayers…