Ritch Goldizen
Granite City | Save
Reverend Ritch Goldizen, 69, of Granite City, Illinois, passed peacefully into the arms of his Savior on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at BJC Evelyn’s House in St. Louis, Missouri, with his beloved wife, Cynthia, faithfully by his side.
Born on June 20, 1956, in Keyser, West Virginia, Ritch was the cherished son of the late Sam and Virginia (Berg) Goldizen. From an early age, he felt a calling on his life — a calling that would shape not only his future, but the lives of countless others.
On July 8, 1977, Ritch married the love of his life, Cynthia Rea, at Bethel Chapel in Granite City, Illinois. Their 48 years of marriage were a beautiful testimony of devotion, partnership, and unwavering faith. Together, they built a life rooted in love, family, and service to God.
Ritch earned his Doctorate in Theology and became a respected and admired shepherd among his colleagues and congregation. Yet titles never defined him. He was, above all, a humble servant of the Lord. He loved preaching the Word of God, studying his Bible, and spending countless hours in prayer. A true prayer warrior, he stood in the gap for many, offering strength, counsel, and encouragement to those in need. As his voice thundered from behind the pulpit every heart was stirred, but it was his quiet compassion and steady faith that left the deepest imprint.
Beyond the church walls, Ritch found joy in the simple blessings of life. He loved fishing with family and friends. Most of all, he treasured his role as PawPaw. His grandchildren were the light of his life. He loved cheering them on and covering them in prayer.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, T.F. Goldizen.
He leaves behind a legacy of faith and love through his devoted wife, Cynthia Goldizen of Granite City, Illinois; his loving children, Eric (Kelly) Goldizen of Granite City, Illinois, and Shontae (Ryan) Harris of Danville, Illinois; and his treasured grandchildren, Zachary (Makenzie) Goldizen, Kinsington Goldizen, Carter Goldizen, Jentezen Harris, Madison Harris, Judah Harris, Emberson Harris, and Seazen Harris. He is also survived by extended family members, fellow ministers, church family, and many dear friends whose lives were forever changed by his ministry.
Though hearts are heavy, we rejoice in the promise he preached so faithfully — that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. His race was run with endurance, his faith kept strong, and his reward is eternal.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at Bethel Chapel in Granite City, Illinois.
A celebration of Ritch’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Bethel Chapel in Granite City, Illinois. He will be laid to rest at Rose Lawn Memorial Gardens in Bethalto, Illinois.
In honor of his life, memorial donations may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation. Donations will be accepted at the church.
Condolences may be shared with the family online.
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home
