JAMES GORDON RITCHIE

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JAMES GORDON RITCHIE Peacefully on December 19, 2010, Gordon passed away at the Park Manor Personal Care Home surrounded by his family. Gordon leaves to mourn his loving wife of 63 years Norma, children Linda (John) Ross and Robert (Nori), grandchildren Jason, Darren (Leanne) Ross, Lindsey, Natalie and Lauren Ritchie, one great-grandchild Jaden Ross, and three siblings Teddy, Mildred and Nancy. Gordon was born on October 9, 1922 in Winnipeg. He was predeceased by his parents Jim and Mary Ritchie and one brother Clifford. Gordon served in the Royal Navy during the Second World War. After his honorable discharge, he immediately joined the work force with Western Grocers and became a union member of the Retail Wholesale Department Store Union (RWDSU). Gordon became actively involved in his local rising through the ranks, becoming the Business Agent of the RWDSU in 1951. There he was influential in organizing various labour unions throughout Manitoba during the 1950s and 1960s. In 1970 Gordon was appointed to the position of International Vice President of RWDSU retiring from the position in 1983. Gordon was instrumental in organizing the present day Manitoba Federation of Labor serving as vice president for many years; founding member of the Union Centre Building at 570 Portage Avenue; Chairman of the Manitoba License Suspension Appeal Board. Because of his participation in the labour movement he was active in the affairs of the New Democratic Party, playing a prominent role in its first Provincial campaign in 1969. He was also involved in the Shriners Skooter and the Mason organizations. He enjoyed curling and golfing. A celebration of Gordon's life will be held on Thursday, December 23, 2010 in the Wheeler Funeral Chapel 211 Regent Avenue, West at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Gordon's name to the Park Manor Personal Care Home. FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS IN CARE OF: WHEELER FUNERAL CHAPEL 211 REGENT AVENUE WEST AT BOND ST. 224-1525

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 22, 2010