Don (Boots) Ritchie

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Passed away peacefully on February 11th, 2021 at Barrie Royal Victoria Hospital in his 81st year

On Feb.11th, 2021, with profound sadness Springwater Sports Heritage learned about Don's passing. In 2014 as a member of the Elmvale Merchant’s 1977 O.A.S.A. championship Elmvale Fastball team he was an honored inductee in the team category of the S.S.H.H. of F. Don was a valued contributing executive member on the 1977 team. In addition to the talent on the playing field the executive and volunteers though often inconspicuous are key members of a team's success. They tend to a multitude of necessary tasks such as financial stability, travel accommodation, team trainers. equipment mangers player recruitment etc... As the 1977 team competed as  far east as Kingston, west as Sarnia, north as Hearst, the Merchant team  required dependence on Don and others who selflessly tended to the many and varied needed tasks. Don over the decades contributed as an executive member or a volunteer on numerous Elmvale fastball and hockey teams. Without hesitation or expecting recognition he could be counted on regardless of the import of the required task. Don earned the player's respect and admiration. His love of sports, his toil, his dedication and tireless efforts were exemplary and fundamental to the success of any team of which he was a valued member. He will be missed. Rest in peace Don.

2014 Inductee- 1977 Elmvale Merchants Men's Fastball Championship Team 
Lynne-Stone Funeral Home -Elmvale