Robert William Ritz

Little Falls-Mr. Robert William "Bob" Ritz, age 87, of East Jefferson Street, a longtime area businessman and active member of the Little Falls community, has passed away.  His passing occurred in the comfort of his home and in the presence of his loved ones.  He is survived by his wife, Jayne Ritz; his two daughters, Shawn Koellhoffer (Thomas Koellhoffer) and Gabriel Ritz Saphar (Edwin Saphar); son, Thor C. Ritz; his daughter-in-law, Cynthia Ritz; grandchildren, Thor Ritz (Daisy Lidz Ritz), Jaime Januszewski (Jerry Januszewski), Allie Ritz, Jayne Koellhoffer (Dan Forman), and Anne Koellhoffer; and three great-grandsons, David, Peter, and Thor Lukas. Born in Watertown and raised in Carthage NY, the son of Milton and Effie Ritz, he graduated from the Merchant Marine Academy and went on to serve as a submarine officer in the Navy eventually retiring as LCDR USNR. In 1980, he came to Little Falls and served as General Manager of the Cherry Burrell Company.  Mr. Ritz served two terms as Fourth Ward Alderman on the Common Council of the city of Little Falls. In accordance with the wishes of the deceased, there will be no public memorial service.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice & Palliative Care, 4277 Middle Settlement Road, New Hartford, NY13413.  Funeral arrangements are under the caring guidance of Daniel J. Enea Funeral and Cremation Care, 5860 State Route 5, between Little Falls and Herkimer (near St. Mary's Cemetery), 508-5250.