William Ritacco

William M. "Bill" Ritacco, 81, of Worcester passed away Monday, June 20th 2011 in the presence of his devoted family after a brief period of declining health. Bill was born February 8, 1930 in Worcester. He was the son of Gennaro and Filomena (Algieri) Ritacco. He graduated from Commerce High School and the New England School of Accounting. Following graduation, Bill joined the U.S. Army to serve his country during the Korean War. Upon returning to Worcester, Bill began a 42-year career as an Electrical Sales Representative. He worked 32 years for Keystone Electric Co. and 10 years for Webster Electric Co. before retiring. On Sunday June 19th, Bill celebrated his 57th wedding anniversary with his beloved wife Mary (Girardi) Ritacco. He is survived by his wife and three children: Roseann M. Ritacco and her husband Keith Bacon, Dr. Donna Ritacco and partner Dr. Gloria McKibbin, and William "Billy" Ritacco Jr., all of Worcester. He also leaves behind four loving grandchildren: William and Leah Ritacco, and Christopher and Arianna Bacon; his former daughter in-law Marie Ritacco, and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. He was predeceased by his most precious sister, Theresa M. (Ritacco) Kwiatkowski, on January 12, 2011. Bill was a member of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church. He enjoyed watching sports, especially the Boston Red Sox. His life's joy and inspiration was his wife, children, and grandchildren. He was a hardworking man with deep values who, until the day of his departure, never took a day off. After being born during the Great Depression, Bill made it his life's mission to bring his family nothing but great happiness. Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family, Friday, June 24th 2011 from 5 pm to 8 pm. in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. His funeral will be held Saturday, June 25th from the funeral home with a Mass at 11:00 am in Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, 24 Mulberry St. Burial will follow in St John Cemetery.