Doug Ritchie

Mar 29, 1966 -

Jun 26, 2022

Doug Ritchie, 56, of Wolf Lake Airport, Wasilla, Alaska, died on June 26, 2022, while working to protect others from the Clear fire in Alaska.

A celebration of life will be held on Aug. 20, 2022, from 1-4 p.m., at Northern Pioneer Helicopters in Big Lake, Alaska, 907-892-1303.

Doug was born on March 29, 1966, in Fremont, Calif., youngest of three, to Victor and Patricia Ritchie. He attended Evergreen High School in Seattle, Wash., and was trained as a helicopter mechanic by the U.S. Army. Doug married Debbie Smith on Oct. 11, 1992, and moved to Fairbanks, Alaska, in 2000, where Doug worked for Quicksilver Air Inc. at Chena Marina and subsequently for Northern Pioneer Helicopters in Big Lake.

In 2011, Doug and Deb had their home built by John Eshleman at Wolf Lake Airport and have been part of this beloved community since.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Diane. He is survived by his wife; sons; and sister, Lynette.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be sent to the Alaska Airmen's Memorial c/o D. E. Northfork LLC., 6382 E Beechcraft Road, Wasilla, AK 99654.