A firefighter with the Columbus Division of Fire has died after battling cancer.
Battalion Chief Steve Martin said John Richey passed away March 7. Ritchey was diagnosed with lung cancer in September 2018.
"Ritchey fought valiantly against this disease and his fight was a testament to his strength as a person and a firefighter. Firefighter Ritchey’s commitment over the past 11 years with the Division of Fire made him an asset to the Division and held him in the highest regard by his peers,” said Fire Chief Kevin O’Connor.
Ritchey joined the Columbus Division of Fire in February 2008.
He was assigned to Station 2 at Fulton Street and Fourth Street after graduating from the fire academy.
He transferred to a position on Engine 15 at Livingston Avenue and Rhodes Avenue in March 2016. He remained there until retiring on March 6.
Ritchey graduated from Reynoldsburg High School in 1992.
