Ann Marie Ritzko

Ann Marie (Sidlasky) Ritzko, 89, passed away peacefully at home in Lutz, Florida, on September 11, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born and raised in Olyphant, Pennsylvania, Ann Marie was the daughter of the late Edmund and Helen (Sawchak) Sidlasky. She was a proud graduate of Olyphant High School and the Felt & Tarrant Comptometer School, where she formed several lifelong friendships. Her first job was in the accounting department of Scranton-Spring Brook Water Service Company. Reflecting her youthful spirit and love of fashion, she walked to work in high heels every day.

After moving to the Philadelphia area, Ann Marie worked for Reed Technology and Information Services Inc. in Horsham, Pennsylvania, until her retirement in 1997. Admired by colleagues for her dedication, reliability, and kindness, she was also known for her infectious energy, often getting everyone out on the dance floor at company parties-especially when the DJ played "Proud Mary," her favorite song. Likewise, she delighted in the music of Freddie Mercury and Queen, whose epic anthems were the soundtrack to many happy moments in her life.

Ann Marie's greatest joy was her family. A devoted mother and grandmother, she loved gathering everyone around the table for home-cooked meals. Her recipes and traditions-including pierogies, holuptsi, and pysanky, rooted in her Ukrainian heritage-will be treasured by her loved ones. She shared a special closeness with her sister, Marge, whose memory she held especially dear in her final years. Her gentle companionship extended to her devoted cat, Kitchka, who was always by her side. She also had a deep love for places that brought her peace and happiness. Pass-a- Grille Beach in Florida was her retreat, and her favorite vacation was in Hawaii, where she was enchanted by the tropical beauty of Maui-and, of course, never missed a chance to enjoy a margarita (or two) while relaxing by the water. Although the Sunshine State was her home for the last 20 years, she remained a loyal and enthusiastic fan of the Philadelphia Eagles, rarely missing a game with her son-in-law, Alex.

Ann Marie relished life's simple pleasures: visiting museums, reading contemporary fiction, watching reality TV (especially Judge Judy), decorating for the holidays, and spending time in conversation. She had a gift for making people feel welcome and valued, and her warmth and generosity touched all who knew her.

She is survived by her daughters, Laura Ritzko and Judith Ritzko-Bell (Alexander), and her cherished granddaughters, Julia Ritzko and Marikathryn Bell, all of Lutz, Florida. She also leaves behind several nephews and nieces, whom she loved dearly. In addition to her parents, she now joins in eternal rest her beloved brother, Edward Sidlasky, Sr., and sister, Margaret (Sidlasky) Ubaldini.

Her family will remember her for her unwavering love, quiet strength, and the countless ways she enriched their lives. In honor of Ann Marie, they invite friends to celebrate her life in their own way, whether by sharing a meal, enjoying the beach with a margarita in hand, or rooting for the Eagles (GO BIRDS).

In keeping with her wishes, services will be private.