Ritchie Kuster Barden, 73 years old, of Keuka Lake passed away on December 21, 2024 surrounded by his loved ones. Ritchie was born in Elmira, NY on April 20,1951 to Ralph and Barbara Barden. After he graduated from Elmira Southside High School he attended Clarkson University where he served as president of his fraternity TKE and earned a bachelor’s degree in business management.

He met his wife Judy Jarvis in college. They married in 1974 and celebrated their 50 year anniversary in July. Together, Ritchie and Judy raised a large, close-knit family. Ritchie was the proud father of five children and the cherished grandfather of eleven. His greatest joy in life was being with his family, watching his children grow and succeed, and witnessing the wonder of his grandchildren. He always made time for family, whether it was helping with projects, sharing a laugh, or offering a wise word. His unwavering love, humor, and guidance will forever be a cornerstone of his children’s lives.

After graduating from Clarkson, he was a highly successful salesman for several fire truck companies. He co-owned and operated Nassau Fire Apparatus in Amityville, Long Island for 30 years. Ritchie had an extensive network of business associates who he regarded not just as colleagues but also dear friends. His hard work not only provided for his family, but also earned him the respect of his colleagues and customers.

From the beginning, his time at the lake was everything to him. Thanks to his grandfather and father, Ritchie became an expert fisherman, boater and avid outdoorsman. These activities were his lifelong passion as well as a way to connect and share his expertise and love with his family. Ritchie had a boundless energy and enthusiasm for life. He was always the first awake, the first to get the work started, the one to crack a joke, get the meal made, and provide his unrelenting support and generosity. His booming laugh, love for his family, and legendary spirit will be greatly missed by all who were lucky to know him.

Ritchie is survived by his beloved wife Judy; daughters Carrie Howe of Addison, NY; Christine Oliva and her husband Tom of Harriman, NY; Stephanie Barden of Harriman, NY; Pamela Barden-Sheriff and her husband Ryan of Oceanside, NY; son Ryan Barden and his wife Lindsey; and grandchildren Ethan, David, and Jacob Howe; Jackson and Samuel Oliva; Isabella and Giovanni Cardinale; Makyla and Oliver Sheriff; and Rylen and Ronan Barden. He is also survived by his sisters Penny Barden; Laurie Crumpton and her husband Samuel; nieces Hallie Martin (Jeremy) and Abby Minihan (David) and their children; as well as his sister-in-law Kim Ivanenok and her husband Joseph and his nephew Christian.

Ritchie found the greatest joy in being together with his family at Keuka Lake. The family will be conducting a private “viking” funeral service. Flint Funeral Home, Wall St., Addison has been entrusted with Ritchie's care.

To honor him and his memory, in lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Keuka Lake Association supporting the health and prosperity of the Keuka Lake ecosystem. https://www.keukalakeassociation.org/gifting-donations.php

Words of comfort may be offered at www.FlintFuneralHome.com

www.FlintFuneralHome.com