Jeanne M. "Bean" Ritchie

CORVALLIS – Jeanne M. “Bean” Ritchie, 79, of Corvallis passed away Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula from a Pulmonary Embolus.  She was born January 21, 1945 in Conrad, MT the daughter of Vaughn D. and Berniece C. (Paulus) Dutro.

After high school, Jeanne earned her Bachelor’s degree in English from Carroll College.  She continued with her education, earning a Master’s degree from Pepperdine University in education and a Master’s degree from National University.  While at National University, Jeanne also served as the Associate Dean of Students.

On October 14, 1995, Jeanne married David Ritchie.  She taught high school for many years before becoming a counselor for Navy College.  Jeanne continued her career with Navy College as a Sight Director for Vincennes University in Indiana.

Jeanne was a member of the Republican Women’s Association in California and Montana.  She loved gardening, especially rose bushes.

Jeanne was preceded in death by her parents; and her nephew, Mike Lee.  She is survived by her husband, David, of Corvallis; 2 daughters, Stephanie Hansen and husband Eric of Thornton, CO and Heather Thurston and husband Steve of La Mesa, CA; 18 grandchildren, 2 sisters and 1 brother.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, June 28, 2024 at 9:30 am at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Florence (224 Lindor Street).  Burial will take place at the Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery in Missoula on Friday, June 28 at 12:00 pm.  Pallbearers will be Jack Lee, Logan Lee, Eric Hansen, Steve Thurston, Scott Ritchie and Jeremie Ritchie.

The family suggests that memorials be made in Jeanne’s name to the Alzheimer's Association (www.alz.org).  Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com.