Carlo Ritacco Obituary: Kinnelon, New Jersey Construction Executive Remembered After Barnegat Bay Drowning
The Kinnelon, New Jersey, community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Carlo Ritacco, a respected construction executive, devoted husband, loving father, and passionate outdoorsman who passed away on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at the age of 51.
Carlo’s sudden passing has left his family, friends, colleagues, and the wider New Jersey community grieving the loss of a man remembered for his leadership, generosity, and unwavering devotion to those he loved most.
The tragic incident began on the morning of June 30, 2026, when emergency responders were dispatched to Bayfront Park in Forked River following reports of a swimmer in distress in Barnegat Bay. Responding officers, assisted by a nearby boater, entered the water and brought Carlo safely back to shore, where CPR was immediately performed before he was transported to Community Medical Center in Toms River. Despite the determined efforts of first responders and medical professionals, Carlo passed away the following day from injuries sustained in the incident.
Born on April 16, 1975, in Belleville, New Jersey, Carlo built a successful career through hard work, integrity, and dedication. As Vice President of Field Operations at Ritacco Construction, he earned the respect of coworkers, employees, and clients alike for his hands-on leadership, professionalism, and commitment to excellence. His guidance helped shape numerous projects while fostering lasting relationships throughout the construction industry.
Away from work, Carlo embraced life with enthusiasm. He was an avid hunter and fisherman who found joy in the outdoors, but nothing compared to the happiness he experienced with his family. Whether attending his sons’ wrestling matches, gathering with relatives for celebrations, or spending time with friends, Carlo’s energy, humor, and larger-than-life personality made every occasion memorable.
Those closest to him describe him as someone who could effortlessly make others laugh while always being ready to lend a helping hand. His warm smile, generous heart, and unmistakable laugh left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Friends remember him as fiercely loyal, dependable, and deeply committed to the people he loved.
Above all else, Carlo was a devoted family man. His wife, Jennifer, and their sons, Michel and Roman, were the center of his world. He took immense pride in supporting his children in every aspect of their lives and cherished every opportunity to create lasting memories with them. His love for his family was evident in everything he did.
Carlo is survived by his beloved wife, Jennifer Ritacco; his sons, Michel and Roman; his parents, Michele and Immacolata Ritacco; his siblings, Tony, Rita, and Mirella; along with numerous extended family members, friends, and colleagues who will forever treasure his memory.
Family and friends are invited to honor Carlo’s life during public visitation on Friday, July 10, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and again from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with a memorial service scheduled for 7:30 p.m. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, in Kinnelon, New Jersey.
Although his passing leaves an immeasurable void, Carlo Ritacco’s legacy of love, laughter, hard work, and devotion to family will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
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