Josef M. Ritter

Josef M. Ritter, 73, passed away at his DeWitt home on June 5, 2025. Born in Elmira, NY, he graduated from University at Albany and Syracuse University. He was a professor at Cazenovia College in the Interior/Architectural Design Department. Josef was committed to keeping his students above the cutting edge in their chosen profession and was proud of starting and making the Design department so successful. His dedication was reflected in the success of his former students. He retired after 38 years, as Professor Emeritus. Josef was a member of the Illuminating Engineering Society and was a keynote speaker for Lightfair 2009 in NYC. In 1981, he married Toni Vogt and supported her in her business as owner/designer of James Flowers in Eastwood. Together they shared many adventures traveling around the world. He had a passion for watercolor painting and pencil portraits, as well as golfing with his wife and good friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Thomas and Mary; stepmother, Irene; sisters, Maryanne and Tina; and his brothers, Tom and Gerard. He is survived by his loving wife, Toni; beloved dog, Miloh; nephew, Bill (Corry) Derschang; great niece, Loralei; great nephew, Jakob; sisters-in-law, Sue Mealy and Connie Vogt (John); and several cousins. Calling hours will be Monday, June 30 from 4-6 pm, with a Celebration of Life following at Fairchild & Meech DeWitt Chapel, 3690 Erie Blvd East, DeWitt. In Josef's memory, donations can be made to your favorite animal shelter.