Michael J. Ritchie, 65, passed away on November 24, 2009 following a brave battle with cancer. Michael was a true source of inspiration. The first in his family to graduate from college, he pursued a forty year career in education. After earning his Master’s Degree, he served as principal at various Chicagoland Catholic grammar schools. He will continue to live on through the thousands of children whose lives he touched. In 1968, he married the love of his life and began a forty-one year romance. Together, Mike and Diane saw their proudest accomplishment realized in raising two much-loved children. By becoming a loving Papa to Sara and Clare, he found a renewed joy. The laughter and strength he instilled in all of them will last a lifetime. He will be remembered always and forever loved by his wife Diane, nee Darmody, his son Liam (Kelli), his daughter Amy, his granddaughters Sara and Clare, his brother John (Gerri), his aunt Dolores and many nieces and nephews. He was welcomed into heaven by his parents Joe and Marge and his brother Joe. Visitation will be Saturday, November 28, 2009 from 3-9 p.m. at Colonial Chapel, 15525 S. 73rd Ave. (155th/Wheeler Dr. & Harlem) Orland Park, Illinois. Interment and Catholic services will be private. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be directed to the hospice or school of your choice. Express your thoughts and condolences at www.colonialchapel.com 708-532-5400