Russell E. Ritchey, age 66, passed away Friday, April 26, 2013 at his home in Clinton, Missouri. Funeral services will be held 2:00 P.M. Wednesday, May 1, 2013 at the Vansant-Mills Chapel, Clinton, Missouri. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 12:00-2:00 P.M. Cremation to follow with a private family inurnment at a later date. The family suggests contributions be made to the Russell Ritchey Memorial Fund and can be left in care of the funeral home. Fond memories and condolences may be left online at www.vansant-millsfuneralhome.com.

Russell was born September 12, 1946 in Sedalia, Missouri the son of Russell A. and Lena (Hubner) Ritchey. He was a retired Fire Chief of Clinton, Missouri. Russell was a member of the Clinton Elks and Eagles Lodges as well as a member of Allen Street Baptist Church.

Russell was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife Deborah, of the home; two sons, Russell H. Ritchey of Bonner Springs, Kansas and Shannon M. Ritchey of Clinton, Missouri, a sister, Francis Paxton of Independence, Missouri, and six grandchildren.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Vansant-Mills Funeral Home of Clinton, Missouri.