James Thomas Ritzenthaler

James Thomas Ritzenthaler obituary, West Palm Beach, FL

James Thomas Ritzenthaler

James Ritzenthaler Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Apr. 10, 2024.
West Palm Beach - In loving memory and with hearts filled with sadness, we announce the passing of James Thomas Ritzenthaler, who was called to his eternal home on March 28, 2024, just days before his 62nd birthday.

Jimmy now joins his late parents, James and Marjorie Ritzenthaler, his grandparents, Ivan and Ruth Ritzenthaler, Herman and Dorothy Haag and his Uncle Bill. Jimmy leaves behind his sister Kathleen (David), his Aunt Anna, his cousin Billy (Ruby), his nieces Meaghan (Domenic) and Allison (Cody), nephew Joshua, grand-niece and nephews, a girlfriend, Heidi, her daughter Sydney, step-son Michael, great friends and his beloved dog, Gunner. His generous spirit extended to a multitude of friends and community members whose lives were enhanced by his energy and kindness.

A graduate of McQuaid Jesuit High School, Jimmy furthered his education at Cortland University, earning a master's degree in sports medicine. Jimmy moved from Rochester, NY to Florida to pursue a career as a member of the police department before answering a new call to become a teacher and coach. Jimmy had a passion for personal fitness and sports. He was a dedicated football player throughout his high school & college career and remained a lifelong fan of the Buffalo Bills.

A private mass & celebration of life, filled with remembrance, will be held at St. Thomas More Church in Rochester, New York. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be planned in Florida. As we bid farewell to our beloved James; a son, brother, nephew, uncle, cousin, companion and friend to many, we do so in the faith that his soul, through the mercy of God, rests in peace.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his name to McQuaid Jesuit High School at 1800 S Clinton Ave, Rochester, NY 14618 or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at StJude.org.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign James Ritzenthaler's Guest Book

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May 29, 2025

Patricia Hernandez posted to the memorial.

March 30, 2025

Ellen Kuzniewski posted to the memorial.

August 12, 2024

Rebecca Taylor posted to the memorial.

3 Entries

Patricia Hernandez

May 29, 2025

My condolences to his family. He was a good friend and a good person. Passionate for football and dogs and fitness. I have to say he helped me in a time of need and I will never forget it. He will be missed. As he is.

Ellen Kuzniewski

March 30, 2025

My heart is broken. I just sent you an early birthday wish and the recipient of it questioned who I was. I thought perhaps maybe you got a new phone and did not have my number. I found it odd and unusual that I did not get a birthday wish or any text messages from you last year. I knew that you were in a relationship with a wonderful woman, but I thought that we were going to be continuing our friendship over the years. It´s sad me and it breaks my heart that I just saw you passed away just days before your birthday last year. You´re healthy now and you´re you´re home with our father and your family. You will be missed. As you have been.

Rebecca Taylor

August 12, 2024

Jim was a bartender as a second job when he was working as a cop. That is when I meet him. We dated for a while but we were better as friends. He was there for me at some of the hardest times of my life. He supported me through it all. I am sorry to hear of his passing. He will be missed .

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Sign James Ritzenthaler's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

May 29, 2025

Patricia Hernandez posted to the memorial.

March 30, 2025

Ellen Kuzniewski posted to the memorial.

August 12, 2024

Rebecca Taylor posted to the memorial.