Michael D. Ritskowitz

On Friday, September 20, 2019, Michael David Ritskowitz, loving father, son, brother, uncle, and boyfriend passed away at age 45.

Michael was born on March 11, 1974. He graduated from Cromwell High School in 1992. Mike attended both Anna Maria College, Paxton, MA and Berklee College of Music, Boston, MA. Michael was employed at Dunbar Armored in New Britain, CT. 

Michael had a singular passion for music. He was a talented musician who played both the guitar and keyboard with amazing skill. He created his own original music and lyrics in the styles of jazz, funk, blues, and rock. He jammed with his brother and friends on a regular basis; Grateful Dead songs were some of his favorite covers. Mike also enjoyed his weekly Dungeons and Dragons game nights at Tabletop Gaming. More than anything else, Mike adored his boys and cherished their time together.

Michael is survived by his mother, Deborah (Heibler) Sfiridis and her husband, James. He is also survived by his sons, Evan and Liam, and their mother, Michael’s former wife, Shannon Crooks. He leaves his brothers, James Ritskowitz, and his significant other, Josephine Ahern, and son, Jack; Daniel Ritskowitz, his wife, Cecelia, and daughter, Alyssa; and his sister, Kathleen Wilson, and her husband, Michael, and two daughters, Bria and Maggie. He also leaves his stepmother, Patricia Bolger. Michael is survived by his girlfriend, Lori Richard. Michael was predeceased in 2016 by his father, John C. Ritskowitz and by his brother, John D. Ritskowitz in 2012.

Michael was a loving, generous person who was known for his quick wit and sharp sense of humor. He was a kind and compassionate spirit with a beautiful smile and an infectious laugh. He was a creative muse with a natural gift for music. Mike will be deeply missed by all who loved him.

Friends and family are invited to attend a memorial gathering for Michael on Friday, September 27, 2019. The service will take place from 5-7 PM at Luddy & Peterson's Funeral Home, located at 205 South Main St., New Britain, CT.

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