Obituary of Richard Ernest Rittenhouse

Richard Ernest Rittenhouse

Oct. 5, 1947 – Feb. 4, 2021

Passed suddenly and unexpectedly, doing what he loved to do, on Thursday Feb 4, 2021 at the age of 73. Predeceased by his parents, Ernest and Ethel Rittenhouse, he was best friend and loving husband of 47 years to Darlene (Coppen); proud father, mentor, and best friend to Aaron (Celina); brother-in-law to Stan and Sue Coppen; uncle to Danny (Karen) and Laura (Dallas) all of Vancouver Island, BC.; and much loved cousin to many.  In addition, he cherished his long lasting friendships of which there were many.

Rick was born, raised, and lived in Jordan all his life. Even larger in heart than stature, his family, friends, and community were always foremost in his mind. He was always available to lend an ear, give advice, or share a joke.  After starting in the hospitality industry he became an auctioneer in 1981, a passion that stayed with him his entire life.  He also worked for more than 25 years for Mutual Life/Sun Life Insurance.

Beyond his career, Rick was generous in his community involvement and was an enthusiastic and tireless fundraiser for countless charities and worthwhile causes in Lincoln, Niagara, and beyond.  A founding member of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, he served on many boards in many capacities over the years. An avid supporter in the preservation of local history and artifacts, he also enjoyed playing hockey in the Jordan Good Timers and Old Timers hockey leagues, fishing, pool, golf, board games and crosswords.  Rick loved a good wager and was never far from a card game, particularly poker. He will forever be remembered as a generous, caring and fun-loving character wherever he went.

Cremation has taken place as he wished and private arrangements due to the pandemic have been entrusted to Tallman Funeral Homes, 3277 King St, Vineland, ON

If desired a donation in Rick's memory would be greatly appreciated.  A charity of your choice or one of the following of which he was a keen supporter:

Lincoln’s Museum and Cultural Centre (Choose Lincoln Community Fund and specify with a message that the donation be directed to Lincoln’s Museum and Cultural Centre): Niagara Community Foundation » Donate Now after clicking on this link, please be certain to select the 'Lincoln Community Fund' after choosing the dollar amount.

Community Care of West Niagara: Donate | Community Care of West Niagara | Lincoln (communitycarewn.ca)

Wise Guys Charity Fund: Wise Guys Charity Fund | Charity Profile | Donate Online | Canadahelps

Or, simply donate a food item to your local foodbank.

The family wishes to thank first responders and staff at Niagara Health – St.Catharines, as well as everyone who has shown overwhelming support for which we are so grateful.