John N. Ritz

East Greenbush, NY-John Nicholas Ritz, 85, passed at home peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. Born in Albany, June 24, 1940 to William and Alpha (Rositani) Ritz. John is predeceased by brother, William Ritz Jr. John is survived by wife of 60 years, Mary Louise (Cambareri) Ritz, daughters Laura (Ronald DeWeese) Roe and Lisa (Larry) Lenartz. Affectionately known as Gaggi by grandchildren, Nicholas (Kasey) Roe, Marissa (Evan Sobieszek) Lenartz and Gianna Lenartz, John cherished time spent with his beloved family. John is survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends. He will be greatly missed by his faithful dog companion, Vinny. Attending Phillips Schuyler HS, John joined the US Air Force in 1963 and continued on to the Air National Guard of NY. John’s career began as a contractor and he went on to form Iota Construction with his brother; later A. Ritz Inc General Contractors. He co-owned Rick’s Lounge in East Greenbush also with his brother in the late 1970s. John owned Ritzy’s Deli in Albany, where he enjoyed being a chef with the help of Michael Roe. John took pride in entertaining and cooking for friends and family, especially on Christmas Eve featuring the Italian tradition of the seven fishes. Over the years John traveled with his family to Aruba often, treasuring his many vacations in the tropical sun. John had many passions in life such as stamp collecting, cooking, and gardening. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with John’s family Sunday, August 3, 2025 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at McVeigh Funeral Home, 208 North Allen Street, Albany, NY 12206. Please enter the funeral home from the rear parking lot entrance only. Funeral services Monday, August 4, 2025 at 10:30 am at Holy Spirit Church, East Greenbush, NY where his Funeral Mass will be celebrated. The Rite of Committal will be held at St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands, NY immediately following the Mass. To leave a special message for the family please visit www.McveighFuneralHome.com Those wishing to remember John Ritz in a special way may send a contribution to American Diabetes Association, 7 Washington Square, Albany, NY 12205.

Tributes

John N. Ritz

June 24, 1940 - July 29, 2025