Ian Ritchie - Calpe & District 41 Club
Calpe 41 Club mourns its founder – Ian Ritchie 1938-2017
Calpe & District 41 Club was established in 2005, and formally chartered by the UK national association less than a year later. It was the energy and determination of founder, Ian Ritchie, motivated by the founder of the original Costa Blanca 41 Club, that made it happen. And now the club mourns Ian’s passing, following his death in June.
Ian was a long-time member of the Round Table family, having first joined Hagley 851 Round Table, in 1972. He held the offices of Secretary and International Officer for much of his time. In this rôle he was responsible for organising two or three home exchanges between Hagley Table, and Sunne-Munkfors Round Table in Sweden. If he was working in Sweden he would often attend their meetings, having made friends with some of their members. In 1976 he took a party of over 40 Tabler's, wives and children, to stay with Round Table families in Sunne-Munkfors. These exchanges promoted several personal friendships, which lasted over the years.
He and his wife, Carol moved to Spain in 1999, having had a holiday home here for several years previously.
There is little doubt that the thriving club in the Calpe area would not be what it is today were it not for Ian’s initiative and dogged leadership. He never wanted to take the chair, but served as secretary and membership officer, as well as the club’s contact with the organisation world-wide. For many, Ian was the club. We are enriched by his work, and by knowing him.
41 Club was established as a social forum for ex-members of the service organisation, Round Table. To find out more visit the website www.calpe41club.com. Use the “Contact Us” page to get in touch.
Andrew Johnson
Founder Chairman
