Daniel Lee Ritchie (84) of Panama City Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2024.

Danny was born December 16, 1939, to Gordon and Leona (Isenberg) Ritchie on a farm 2 miles north of Dallas, Iowa. He was a member of the Dallas High School class of 1958, where he enjoyed playing baseball and basketball, and participating in the Glee Club.

He and Viola Spaulding of Bauer were married August 1, 1959, at St.Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bauer, Iowa.

He was a longtime employee of the Firestone Tire Company before becoming a golf course Superintendent of Pleasantville and Knoxville, Iowa.

His hobbies included hunting, fishing, golfing, woodworking and furniture re-finishing. He was a life long learner who enjoyed reading historical novels and spending time with his family. He was also a supporter of the University of Iowa’s athletic teams and the Chicago Cubs.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Viola, daughter Kim (Rick) Branson of Indianola, Iowa, daughter Kristi (Bill) Brown of Junction City, Kansas, son John (Christine) of Kansas City, Missouri. Brother David (Janet) Ritchie of Knoxville, Iowa, and step-brother Dennis Mann of Knoxville, Iowa. Grandchildren Andy and Danelle Branson of Tucson, Arizona, Austin Brown of Kansas City and great grandson Gordon Branson of Tucson, Arizona

Danny was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Lynn and son Bruce.

There will be a celebration of life on Saturday, June 8 at 1pm in the home of Kim and Rick Branson at 1314 E Girard Avenue, Indianola Iowa 50125.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested any donations be made to Hospice of Central Iowa.