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Angelo Ritacco Obituary
Angelo was preceded in death by his loving parents, Rosaria and Vincenzo Ritacco, and sister Angelina. He is survived by his brother, Ralph Ritacco; his sister-in-law, Jessica Ritacco; his niece, Brittan Ritacco; his nephews, Pierce Abosso and Kade Abosso; as well as his Godchildren cousins, aunts, uncle, and family members and friends.
A manager in the restaurant industry, Angelo was known for his larger-than-life personality, his ability to brighten any room, and his genuine care for others. His humor and radiant smile will forever remain in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know him.
Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday, March 12 from 4pm – 7pm at Gaffney-Dolan Funeral Home, 59 Spruce St., Westerly. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 am on Thursday, March 13th at Immaculate Conception Church, 111 High St., Westerly. There is no procession from the funeral home to church. Burial will follow at St. Michael's Cemetery, Stillman Ave. Ext., Pawcatuck. For online condolences please visit www.gaffneydolanfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Angelo Ritacco
Sponsored by Gaffney-Dolan Funeral Home - Westerly.
Jennifer Alexander
May 18, 2025
Jennifer Alexander
May 18, 2025
My heart is broken in pieces! I was wondering why we haven´t heard from you. You´ve never gone more than a couple of weeks without contacting me. I´m so sorry that your journey here on Earth is over. Thank you for always being there for us. I will miss you forever. Xoxo
Al
March 26, 2025
Here are the comments I made at Angelo´s funeral service:
THANK YOU´s
Gafney Dolan
Immaculate Conception
Calabrese club
All who were involved with the food (list names) Ralph´s friends
All who did coffee/dessert area (Shaye/Sal, Morgan/Jonny, Frank/Nancy)
All who were involved with the bar (Frank/Nancy)
Everyone who stopped by to pay respects at Ralph´s house
Everyone who prayed and kept Angelo in their thoughts.
Everyone on social media, phone, texts around the world.
Everyone who attended the wake, funeral service, and here.
THANK YOU
Angelo is a cousin, best friend, brother, son, uncle, godfather, and family to all.
Angelo has the biggest heart, impacted counted lives, and created so many moments for everyone.
FAMILY HISTORY
Angelo´s mom Rosaria, Christine´s dad Salvatore, my mom Assunta, all siblings.
Moved from Italy then eventually ended up in Westerly.
They lived minutes from each other.
Cumba Vincenzo/Zia Rosario
Had Ralph
My mom/Dad
Had Sal
Zio Sal, Zia Marlene
Had Manuela
All within a year
My mom/Dad
Had Me
Cumba Vincenzo/Zia Rosario
Had Angelo
Uncle Sal, Zia Marlene
Had Christine
All within a year
Coordination??? Nothing on Rai TV?
Shared birthdays, celebrations, get togethers, holidays, whenever.
Tradition
Christmas Eve- Angelo´s
Christmas Day- Christine´s
Thanksgiving, New Years- my house
CHILDHOOD
As a child, Angelo was unforgettable. Angelo was at every wedding, birthday, get together, holiday, gathering. Angelo made every event special.
*I remember on my birthday Angelo would blow out my candles. I have photo evidence. I was good with it.
*Angelo was the kid that would show up in a bathing suite and towel at your door and ask to use your pool.
*Angelo was the kid who would walk or ride bikes with his cousins and friends all over Westerly.
Christine, Angelo, and I would walk to each other´s houses.
We were told to not cross the big road (Granite Street)
*We would go to the beach, movie theater, bowling, arcade, Rocky Pointe, and so many places.
*so many roller skating and birthday parties with all of the cousins and friends.
At Sal Siciliano´s birthday party, Nancy taught all of the electric slide. Frank watched us.
*regulators photo about Warren G.
Including Sal and Jonny Siciliano, Rocky and Maxi Sposato, Little Sal Siciliano, Franco
If you remember that song, You are old.
Angelo creates so many special moments and memories for everyone.
WORKING AT BEACH
Angelo worked at the beach. Got me my first restaurant job. I did dishes at 13 years old and Angelo basically the same age (a little younger) was already the manager and head chef of the restaurant).
Angelo creates so many special moments and memories for everyone.
DJ
Angelo was a DJ and did countless weddings and events.
I was his DJ assistant sometimes. He would run and entire wedding or event and made sure everyone had an amazing time and memorable event. Including the tarantella and chicken dance.
Angelo creates so many special moments and memories for everyone.
SCHOOL
Angelo was the class president (several times). He organized events, knew everyone, wanted everyone to have the best experience at school.
Very into drama even writing a funny play about Italian life in Westerly with Christine.
Angelo creates so many special moments and memories for everyone.
MOVING TO FLORIDA
Angelo moved to Florida to go to college at St Leo University. Small college.
When I would visit him I would drive through the entrance of the University I would drive up to the first student I saw and ask, "Where is Angelo?" And I always got, "He is over there in building whatever". Angelo organized trips for everyone like going to see Garth Brooks and Billy Joel, joined a fraternity, and became part of eveyone´s lives there.
Angelo creates so many special moments and memories for everyone.
I remember in January 1999 we got word that his dad was in the hospital, I remember being with Angelo as he prepared to go back to Rhode Island to be with his dad who unfortunately passed away.
He loved his dad so much and did everything he could to honor his dad at the funeral. We had spent Christmas together with Cumpa Vincenzo less than a month before.
Angelo creates so many special moments and memories for everyone.
IN FLORIDA
Angelo made a life in Florida.
Angelo as he also did in Westerly and everywhere he went made countless friends. He would made feasts for everyone that would leave everyone in a food coma.
Not only make amazing food, but every dish on that table was made with someone in mind. He shared his love with people through cooking and making lasting special moments of time.
He worked at different jobs in Florida and as a manager at Hilton and quickly became the most loved person at every job because he cared so much about everyone and wanted them to have the best experience.
Angelo creates so many special moments and memories for everyone.
MOM PASSING
Pre Covid, Angelo´s mom started needing help. Angelo moved back to Westerly to take care of his mom. It was a tough decision, but for Angelo it was easy. He said, "I need to take care of my mom". Through many ups and downs Angelo, his brother and many others took care of his mom. His mom passed away in 2020 during Covid. He was devastated again. Again, he did the best he could to honor his mother and provided a memorable funeral service for her.
LIFE AFTER HIS MOM
Angelo reconnected with friends and family in Westerly. He would spend time with family and friends going to restaurants and trivia.
Spending time with Clint and David.
Spending time with his brother, Jessica, Kade/Pierce, and Miss Britton.
Spending time with Sal/Shaye, Emma, Maggie,, Godparents Frank/ Nancy
Getting tacos with Jonny and Morgan.
Hanging out with Little Sal and his family.
Making wine, soupy and recently capacola with so many of you.
and everyone here and everywhere.
LIFE
Christine, Angelo, and Al would organize yearly Cousin trips to places like
New York (Broadway shows, food, drinks)
Memphis (Live music, food drinks)
DC (Monuments, history, food, drinks)
Kentucky (whiskey/bourbon tours, food, drinks)
Portland, Maine (breweries, repeat, we did an island for then breweries, and food drinks)
Please take a moment and think of your Angelo Ritacco memories.
He would still visit Florida often mostly on a whim with basically no planning. He would come into town and immediately we would be having get togethers and dinners.
(Share story last trip to vote)
THURSDAY MARCH 6
Angelo called me around 2 pm. We talked as we always did.
That night I got the call that Angelo passed and I lost it.
When I arrived I saw the outpouring of love for Angelo.
Christine, Clint, David, and I went to Ballo at Mohegan Sun.
I heard the story about what happened.
Also that night everyone wore colorful ties for Angelo.
Everyone came up to say how much they loved him.
THANK YOU TO EVERYONE
Thank you for the out pouring of love.
Thank you for stopping by.
Thank you for the food.
Thank you for the prayers,, thoughts, and actions for Angelo.
Thank you for being in Angelo´s life.
Hold every memory dear.
THROUGH HIS WHOLE LIFE
He loves:
-traveling
-music (Garth Brooks, Billy Joel, Motley Crew, and many more)
-theater
-cooking
-helping others
-giving of himself
-singing
-always made things better
-always there for me
-always there for you
-loves his friends, family, nephews, godchildren, niece Brittan, everyone.
-loves all of you.
In this long speech I did not really use past tense.
Angelo is here.
Angelo is in your hearts and memories,
I still don´t believe he is gone.
(play Gary Brooks, "The Dance")
https://youtu.be/6FHvP_Yv0wE?si=SxgqJEdPIZ1CQhR8
Melissa Pedone
March 26, 2025
I am deeply sorry to hear of Angelo's passing. I got to know him during his time in Florida and he was such a fun person and so full of life. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this very difficult time.
Holly Chicoria
March 15, 2025
Ralph and Family I am so sorry about your loss,it's hard to lose a sibling especially so young I sympathize with you... If you ever want to talk Im in town! God bless.
With all my love and friendship
Pasqualina Di Roma
March 15, 2025
My deepest condolences
Pasqualina Di Roma
Toronto, Canada
Tony Bruno
March 15, 2025
Our deepest condolences
Assunta & Tony Bruno
Toronto, Canada
Drew Robinson
March 15, 2025
Angelo was just as described. He was a glowing, bright and fun personality. I just recieved the bad news of his passing today (March15th 2025.) My heart goes out to Ralph and the rest of his family. He will be surely missed by all.
Jeremiah Farren
March 13, 2025
Angelo, there is no shortage of folks who are expressing their love and admiration for you. And that is no surprise. I know it´s been 30 years but it can only imagine that huge heart and even bigger personality has given so many people joy. Rest easy my friend. No that you are loved and that you will be cherished and remembered. My heart is with your family at this difficult time.
Amanda Morrone
March 13, 2025
Angelo has forever been a part of my life as well as my family's too. I graduated with him and we continued our friendship until now. His smile would always light up a room, not to mention him up on stage as a Dj and center of attraction which always instill in my heart he deserves so much more especially when it came to his extravagant and pure heart so loving , so caring so gentle inside and out! My thoughts and prayers go out to family as well god bless everyone
Carla Arpa
March 12, 2025
I have amazing memories of our trips to Rhode Island and your adventures to visit us here in Canada. I loved when you and Ralph risked your lives on a small plane to come visit us and come to our wedding. I will miss your voice my American cousin. Sending love to the family.
Nichole and Mike Segarra
March 12, 2025
"People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."
Angelo, Mike and I will sincerely miss your kindness and warmth.
Rooney LaPlante
March 12, 2025
My very sincere condolences to his family. A wonderful spirit that also loved music. His presence was a welcomed vibe, a calm soul who was always in great spirit. Angelo you are now, and will always be very dearly and sadly missed by those that were fortunate to have known you. Bless.
Dan and Ruthmarie Apker
March 12, 2025
Angelo we were lucky enough to meet you many years ago at St. Leo's college. You were helping our daughter Genevieve unload her car and move in her dorm. I was so nervous leaving Genevieve, but you assured me you would look out for her, and you did. We all became not just friends but family, Angelo you would call and text just to make sure we were ok, and you are our granddaughter, Danika, godfather. There are no words to say how much you mean to our family and how much you will be missed. Angelo may you have peace and love in God's hands.
Gordon L Lawless Jr
March 12, 2025
My deepest condolences go out to his family, I remember Angelo and his brother Ralph because we went to school together. My mother used to go into his parents store every year to get stuff for Easter and Christmas, may he R.I.P.
Tim and Erin
March 12, 2025
Wedding reception caterer extraordinaire. A true friend.
Genevieve Apker
March 12, 2025
As humans we always take for granted that there will be more memories, laughs and time together. Until unexpectedly that time runs out and you are left thinking of all the should haves, didn'ts and missed opportunities.
The last week I have tried endlessly to come to terms with the thought of saying goodbye to you Angelo and all I can see are decades of friendship, text messages, laughs and tears.
Thank you for being there for me, even the times I didn't love myself, you did. Thank you for being such an important part of Danikas life and loving her unconditionally.
As you are laid to rest tomorrow, please know how much you are loved and will be missed, continue to watch over us from above and know the world is a little dimmer without you in it
Love you more,
Gen
Billy Floyd
March 12, 2025
Angelo was the best of us. With a heart the size of Rhode Island and a smile and personality as warm as the sun.
The world is a bit colder today. For those that loved him, it will be a bit colder for some time.
The irony is, this is when Angelo would glow at his brightest. When the days grew dark, and temperature fell... Angelo would warm the world, and keep us all safe and loved.
So let´s warm the world for Angelo a bit more today.
To honor him.
To share his love.
Normandy Ward Barry
March 11, 2025
I met Angelo my freshman year in college at St. Leo. I think he and Joe Crook were helping with Freshman orientation or something. Anyway, we became good friends over those 4 years. He was always kind, funny, and around for the good times. We both moved away from that area, but I did see him a few more times. He always greeted me with a big smile and a hug. He was loved by everyone and I hope he's at peace now.
Erin O'Brien and Tim Grogan
March 11, 2025
Angelo,
You're bright smile and welcoming presence will forever be in our hearts. You catered our wedding with such care and kindness. Everyone felt welcome and enjoyed good food and memories because of you. You will be missed.
Tim and Erin
Adam Morales
March 11, 2025
Rest easy, Angelo
Jesse Dennis
March 11, 2025
It has been nearly thirty years since I have had the pleasure of spending time with you, Ang, but you were always a great friend, a kind soul, and a generous spirit. The world was far better with you in it, you will be missed. My condolences to your family, I´m sorry I can´t be there in person to give you my well wishes at the visiting hours. I am so sorry for your loss.
Katie Sewell Anderson
March 11, 2025
Ang, you were taken far too soon. You were so loved. I´ll never forget you. Love, Katie
Mrs. Nancy Lewis
March 11, 2025
My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time.
Craig Lumbra
March 11, 2025
A wonderful Gentleman great to have met and know Angelo no matter what is going on he always takes his time to come see you and say Hi such a happy soul he will be missed dearly from The Lumbra `s
John Ventilato
March 11, 2025
Ralph and family, we are so sorry for your loss of Angelo, he always had a smile on his face when we saw him across the street, he was the best neighbor and cook, I had the privilege of watching Angelo grow into the man he was, RIP Angelo you will be so missed
Cori Satti
March 11, 2025
Oh Ralph, I´m so sorry to hear about your brother. So many laughs growing up together. Sending you peace knowing you have another guardian angel.
Joe Gencarelli
March 11, 2025
Angelo was a great person. He will missed.
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Gaffney-Dolan Funeral Home - Westerly59 Spruce Street, Westerly, RI 02891
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