LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Gordon Ritchie -- a farmer, veteran and one of the voices of Freddy Farm Bureau -- was killed on Sunday night.
Police said the 78 year old from Valley Station was found dead at a home on the 15000 block of Dixie Highway with a fatal gunshot wound.
According to officials, Louisville Metro Police (LMPD) responded to the home on a "trouble run."
Neighbors said it was a home invasion, and that Ritchie's vehicle was stolen during the incident.
Ritchie was one of the longtime voices behind the giant figure at the Kentucky State Fair. He was also a Vietnam veteran.
"Faithful is a good way to describe him," said David Beck, president and founder of Kentucky Venues. "He was faithful to his church, his family, his organizations, a Vietnam veteran, he was faithful to his country and a very respected man."
Beck said you could always count of Ritchie, especially as a volunteer for Freddy Farm Bureau.
"He's just that kind of a fella," Beck said. "The kind of guy you'd like to be your neighbor."
Charlie Butler, a neighbor of Ritchie's farmhouse, said he didn't know him personally, but understands from others that he's a good man and that "he'll be missed."
"He realizes the challenges of rural and urban," Beck said. "He saw the value of Freddy...he's been right over here for years being able to talk to people, make them feel comfortable."
Generations have been able to experience the 18 foot tall greeter at the Kentucky State Fair since 1958.
Both farmers, Beck and Ritchie met at the Louisville Ag Club.
"A man of few words," Beck said. "We say down at home: The still water runs deep."
Beck said the funeral service is scheduled for Friday afternoon.
Police said there is no suspect information. The investigation is active and ongoing.
Anyone with information is encouraged to call LMPD's anonymous tip line at (502) 574-LMPD (5673) or use their online tip portal.