The late Peter Ritchie passed away in the early hours of June 21, 2024, in Gran Canaria after a brief battle with cancer, which he was diagnosed with only two days prior. Peter was 72 years old.
Peter Ritchie traveled to Gran Canaria to care for his spouse, John Shaw, who had broken his hip. Unfortunately, Peter’s travel insurance had expired due to an extended stay, leaving the family unprepared for the high costs associated with a funeral or repatriation.
John Shaw has organized a fundraiser to cover the expenses of a funeral service and cremation in Gran Canaria, as the local authorities are unable to accept Peter’s body for donation to science, which was his wish. The goal is to raise £1,500 by June 25th to comply with Spanish customs for timely funerals.
The community has responded with generosity and kindness. John Shaw expressed his gratitude, saying, "Thank you everyone for all the lovely messages of condolence myself and my family have received. For all those who knew Peter, thank you for being a part of his life."
Viv Ritchie, known as Pixie, also shared the urgency and emotional strain, stating, "Any help is much appreciated as this needs to be paid as soon as possible as each day the expenses increase."
Peter Ritchie was a beloved husband, stepfather, and grandfather. He had a passion for sports, having played rugby league for Wakefield Trinity in his youth and being an avid Leeds United football fan. His family wishes to honor his memory with a proper memorial and farewell.
As of now, the fundraiser has raised £940 from 21 donations, with notable contributions from individuals like Kimmy Ryan-Dooner, who donated £200. The support reflects the love and respect Peter garnered throughout his life.
This situation underscores the unexpected challenges families can face when insurance coverage lapses and the importance of community support in times of crisis.
Note:This post was written and edited by Layla Mitchell, based on their expertise and research. It is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. We welcome your feedback and questions on this content. Please feel free to contact us.