Dennis Cahill Rittenberry

November 4, 1953 – May 14, 2025

Dennis Cahill Rittenberry, age 71, passed away on May 14, 2025, in Wausau, Wisconsin. Born on November 4, 1953, in New Jersey, Dennis lived a vibrant and full life marked by love, laughter, travel, and a deep connection to community.

He grew up in New Jersey with his parents, Betty and Charles Rittenberry, and his siblings Kevin, Bob, Michael, and Susan. Dennis first went to Rider College in Lawrenceville, NJ before transferring to Stout State in Wisconsin, where he earned a degree in Hospitality and Tourism. In 1988, he married Donna Senty, and together they raised two children, Larissa and Elliott. His professional life reflected his passion for service and connection—he worked with the Colorado Renaissance Festival, owned Chippewa Valley Restaurant Supply, and contributed to numerous restaurant supply businesses throughout his career.

In 2005, Dennis began a new chapter in Alaska, where he worked in restaurants and sales. There, his warm heart and magnetic personality quickly made him a beloved member of the community. Whether helping a neighbor, lighting up a room with his energy, or dancing at any gathering where music played, Dennis had a gift for bringing people together. His love for music, adventure, and celebration defined him, as did the countless friendships he nurtured across the United States—especially in Alaska and Wisconsin.

Dennis was preceded in death by his birth father Joseph Kane, mother Betty Rittenberry, father Charles Rittenberry, brother Michael Rittenberry, sister Susan McKew, and partner Bobbie Rich.

He is survived by his brother Bob Rittenberry and wife Marie; his nephew Chad Rittenberry; his brother Kevin Rittenberry and wife Dotty; his niece Isabelle Rittenberry; his daughter Larissa Zompolas and husband Thomas; his grandchildren Niko and Aria Zompolas; his son Elliott Rittenberry and husband John Peschl; his niece Melinda McKew and Jeff McKew; and many dear friends and extended family who were touched by his laughter and joy.

A celebration of Dennis' life will be announced at a later date. In the meantime, we invite those who knew him to remember his bright spirit, the joy he brought to every gathering, and the music he always carried in his heart. Raise a glass, play a favorite song, and celebrate Dennis in the way he would have loved most—with laughter, connection, and dancing.

Mid-Wisconsin Cremation Society is assisting the family at this time. Online condolences can be expressed at MWCS.WS.