William H. Ritzel

Bill is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Heidi (Diercksen), brother Dick (Jan) Ritzel of Vero Beach, FL, brother-in-law Pete (Pat) Diercksen of Castleton, VT, and many beloved nieces and nephews along with innumerable friends. He is predeceased by his parents, Richard and Helen Ritzel of Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ.

Bill attended St. Luke’s elementary school in Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ, high school at Cardinal Farley Military Academy in Rhinecliff, NY, and college at Benedictine College in Atchison, KS. He worked on Wall Street at several brokerage houses before eventually becoming the office manager for a private investment firm. Bill was talented in his career but his zest for life was more evident outside of work.

He and Heidi traveled extensively in the United States and Canada, almost reaching their goal to see all 50 states. They even ventured as far away as Germany, Austria, France, and Russia. When Bill wasn’t traveling, he enjoyed stamp collecting, was an avid fly fisherman, and loved to camp in his fifth-wheel trailer. Bill loved telling stories of his adventures fly fishing in Alaska that always held everyone’s attention.

Bill was kind to everyone he met regardless of their role in his life, and everyone who interacted with him was immediately taken by his affable personality. He was also an extremely generous person who would jump in to offer any assistance he could without hesitation. Bill’s compassion and incredible sense of humor made him beloved by all who were fortunate to know him. His kind spirit, contagious laugh, and selfless spirit will truly be missed.

In lieu of flowers, you may honor Bill’s memory by making donations to the ALZHEIMER'S ASSOCIATION at www.alz.org, the American Indian College Fund at https://collegefund.org/, or the Best Friends Animal Society at https://bestfriends.org/.

A Memorial Mass will be on Friday, November 14, 2025 at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of the Angels. A committal service will follow at Manasota Memorial Park where he will be inurned. Immediately following, there will be a Celebration of Life Reception at Robert Toale and Sons Celebration of Life Center in Lakewood Ranch.