Senate Resolution No. 1754
BY: Senator HARCKHAM
MOURNING the death of Frank Ritacco, distinguished
citizen, firefighter, and devoted member of his
community
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
citizens of the State of New York whose lifework and civic endeavor
served to enhance the quality of life in their communities and this
great Empire State; and
WHEREAS, Frank Ritacco of Somers, New York, died on Tuesday, March
10, 2026, at the age of 28; and
WHEREAS, Born on June 20, 1997, in New Rochelle, New York, to
Maureen and the late Frank D. Ritacco, Frank Ritacco was raised in
Pelham, New York, and graduated from Pelham Memorial High School; and
WHEREAS, Filled with a desire to serve his community, Frank Ritacco
proudly joined the Somers Volunteer Fire Department; his time in the
fire department brought him immense joy and fulfillment; and
WHEREAS, Oftentimes, Frank Ritacco could be seen representing the
Somers Volunteer Fire Department with his clothing, and he was known to
support all first responders for their selfless commitment to helping
their communities; and
WHEREAS, Frank Ritacco distinguished himself in his profession and
by his sincere dedication and substantial contribution to the welfare of
his community; and
WHEREAS, Frank Ritacco's commitment to excellence, and his spirit of
humanity, carried over into all fields of enterprise, including
charitable and civic endeavors; and
WHEREAS, Throughout his life, Frank Ritacco was always a passionate
sports fan, and his favorite team was the New York Mets; and
WHEREAS, Those who had the pleasure of knowing Frank Ritacco will
remember him for his kind soul, bright smile, and cherished laughter;
and
WHEREAS, Frank Ritacco is survived by his mother, Maureen; his
aunts, Roseann Ritacco, Kathleen Alewine, Diane, Anne Martin, and Tina
Settembrino; his uncles, Joseph, Brian, and Stephen Murray; and many
cousins in New York, Ohio, Virginia, North Carolina, and Florida; and
WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of
compassion, Frank Ritacco leaves behind a legacy which will long endure
the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all he
served and befriended; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of Frank Ritacco, distinguished citizen, firefighter,
and devoted member of his community; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Frank Ritacco.