Anthony “Tony” Ritacca passed away on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the age of 93, leaving behind a legacy of devotion to family, country, and a life well lived. He was born on April 7, 1933, the son of Frank and Mary (Giorno) Ritacca.
Tony grew up in Kenosha and graduated from Bradford High School in 1952. Shortly thereafter, he proudly answered the call to serve his country in the United States Army during the Korean War, an experience that shaped his deep sense of patriotism and lifelong respect for those who serve.
Upon returning home, Tony met the love of his life, Mary Ann Spizzirri. The two were united in marriage in 1959 and went on to build a strong and loving family together, raising three children who will carry forward his values and memory.
Tony dedicated many years of hard work to American Motors and later Chrysler, where he built a steady career before retiring in 1988. He took pride in his work and in providing for his family.
He had a deep passion for history, especially military history. Tony could often be found watching historical and war films or reading any book on the subject he could get his hands on. His curiosity and respect for the past were a defining part of who he was.
Above all, Tony will be remembered for his warm and genuine smile—a simple but powerful expression of the kindness and joy he brought to those around him.
Tony is survived by his children, Thomas (Karen) Ritacca, Michael (Chris) Ritacca, and Mary Ann (Rodney) Gillette; grandchildren, Alyssa (Beau) Lewis, Jonathan (Nichole) Ritacca, Annelise Ritacca, Robbie Ritacca, Jenny (Eddie) Bagley, and Jessica (Travis) Rosmann; and eight great-grandchildren. In addition to his beloved wife and parents, Tony is preceded in death by his brother, Frank Ritacca.
Visitation will be held from 2:00 PM until the time of the service at 4:00 PM on Monday, May 11, 2026, at Proko Funeral Home. Please meet the family for Tony’s interment with military honors at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12, at Southern Wisconsin Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, Union Grove, WI.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to H.O.P.E Safehouse, 1234 Lathrop Ave, Racine, WI 53405, www.hopesafehouse.org, in honor of Tony’s great love for dogs.
event_available
Services & Events
eventVisitation
location_on Proko Funeral Home, 5111-60th Street, Kenosha, WI 53144
schedule Monday, May 11, 2026, at 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
eventFuneral Service
location_on Proko Funeral Home, 5111-60th Street, Kenosha, WI 53144
Schedule Monday, May 11, 2026, at 4:00 PM
eventCommittal Service
location_onSouthern Wisconsin Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery21731 Spring Street, Union Grove, WI, 53182
schedule Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 2:00 PM – 2:15 PM
