Obituary of Shirley Winnifred Ritchie

July 26, 1932 - Calgary, Alberta

November 12, 2023 - Calgary, Alberta

Shirley Ritchie (nee Clark), of Calgary, AB, passed away on Sunday, November 12, 2023, at the age of 91 years.

Born on July 26, 1932, in Calgary, AB, Shirley embarked on a beautiful journey, marked by her marriage to Lawrence Robert Loeppky in 1949.

Her career path led her through various chapters, from her early days at Zellers to AGT, Centennial Packers, and finally, the CNIB, where she dedicated her years until retirement.

Shirley, a woman of many passions, found joy in cheering for the Calgary Stampeders, conquering crossword puzzles, trying her luck at the casino, and, above all, cherishing moments with her family.

Among her cherished memories were vacations to the interior of BC with Larry and the kids, while later in life, she enjoyed trips to Hawaii, the Bahamas, Texas, and Vegas.

Family was very important to Shirley, always there for the kids, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She had a set schedule in which she would phone each and every one at certain times and days to share news. They would always look forward to her calls. She was so proud of all her children and their accomplishments. A true matriarch.

Shirley is survived by her sons, Bob Loeppky, Kerry Loeppky (Carole), Terry Loeppky (Bev), and Lyle Loeppky (Ronda); her grandchildren, Chad (Ayn) Heather, Misty, Mike, Taylor, Amber, Serenity (Eric), Chris (Martina), Sandy, and Shelby; as well as her great-grandchildren, Anais, Layton, Heavon-Liegh, Jaxon, Hayley, Megan (Paul), Bradley (Jina), Michel, Lucie, Leni, and Rosie. Shirley was predeceased by Larry, John, Harvey; her daughter Lorri Macksymetz, her parents, John and Cora Clark; her brothers, Harold and Calvin; and her sister Ethel.

Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at McInnis & Holloway (Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street N, Calgary, AB T2E 2V6) on Sunday, November 19, 2023, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Funeral Services will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street N, Calgary, AB T2E 2V6) on Monday, November 20, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home. Graveside Service to follow at Queen's Park Cemetery. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Shirley’s family here.

In living memory of Shirley Ritchie, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, Calgary, AB T2E 2V6, Telephone: 403-243-8200.

If friends and family wish to send the family comfort food to their residence, please use the below link to do so.