Obituary of Douglas James Ditrich

Chief Douglas James Ditrich passed away tragically on Sunday, January 21, 2024, at the age of 50. He is preceded in death by his sister, Dawn Ditrich. Left to cherish his memory are his parents, Norman and Judith (Bleil) Ditrich; beloved wife, Sherri (Shullaw) Ditrich; sons, DJ Ditrich, Kolton Ditrich, Tyler Smith, Ryan Walker and Austin Walker; daughters, Holly Jackson and husband Jalen, Jessica Rivas and husband Ricky; brothers, Chris Ditrich and wife Roxanne, David Ditrich and wife Stacie; sisters, Beth Ditrich, Angela Lahay and husband Matthew; grandchildren, Cambria White, Demri White, Avril White, Lorelei Walker, Victoria Rae Walker; along with a host of other family, friends, brothers and sisters in law enforcement, and the citizens of La Porte whom he served faithfully.

Chief Ditrich recently reached 26 years of service with the City of La Porte, Texas, on December 29, 2023. Chief Ditrich began his law enforcement career with the City on December 29, 1997, after completion of the T.C.L.O.S.E. Academy at the University of Houston – Downtown in August 1997. Chief Ditrich began his service to the La Porte community as a Police Officer and held numerous other ranks and roles throughout his career. Recognitions Chief Ditrich acquired during his tenure with the City of La Porte include 2019 Manager of the Year, nominations for 2010 and 2013 Employee of the Quarter, and many letters of Thanks and Commendations.

In his leisure time, Chief Ditrich enjoyed spending time in the great outdoors with Sherri. From hunting deer or hogs, bass fishing with live bait, working his land and property, to just driving his truck or tractor, he preferred to spend time out in nature. More than anything, Chief Ditrich loved to spend time with his family, his dogs Sam and Fletch, and his cat Aero. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

In Lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to Chief Ditrich’s funeral fund.

A visitation for Chief Ditrich will be held on Friday, January 26^th, 2024, at Clayton Funeral Home of La Porte, from 5 to 8 pm. (201 S 3^rd St, La Porte, Texas 77571) Funeral Services will be held the following day, Saturday, January 27^th, 2024, at the Bulldog Center in La Porte, Texas, at 2:00 pm. (301 E Fairmont Pkwy, La Porte, Texas 77571)