Michael Douglas Rittue

November 20, 1968 – September 18, 2024

Michael Douglas Rittue, age 55, passed away on September 18, 2024, at Our Lady of the Lake Hospital after a short battle with cancer.

Born on November 20, 1968, in Los Gatos, California, to Carla Rittue and Michael Cooper Rittue, Michael lived a full and meaningful life, deeply loved by his family, friends, and even strangers he helped along the way.

A proud patriot, Michael served in the U.S. Army as an M163 Vulcan Gunner in the 3/67 Air Defense Artillery while stationed in Germany. After his military service, he worked as an independent contractor, always applying the same work ethic and dedication that he learned in the Army.

Michael had a remarkable ability to put a smile on everyone’s face. His love for cooking was matched only by his generosity – always providing food and sharing with family, friends, and even strangers. His love for music, especially playing the guitar, brought joy to those around him and will forever be remembered.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Katja Rittue; his daughter, Tammy Rittue, and two grandchildren. Michael also leaves behind his stepchildren, Cesar Avila (Daina), Kevin Whitted and Cassidy Drake (John). In addition, he is survived by his mother Carla Rittue, father Michael C Rittue (Kathy), brother J (Nichole) and children Sierra & Brandon, sisters Danielle Davis (Chris) and children Hannah & Emily, Missy Van Rensselaer (Rick) and children Sarah & Kyle, and his close friend Jevan Combs, whom he affectionately called his “brother from another mother.”

He is also survived by Aunts Tracy Szilasi (Ken), Kim Florian, Bernadine Sanders, Pamela Rittue and Uncle Jerry Sanders (MaryLou).

He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Eugene Kenneth Jaggars, Uncle James Douglas Sanders Jr, maternal Grandparents Gloria Sunshine Sanders and James Douglas Sanders, paternal Grandparents Betty Jo Rittue and Edward Cooper Rittue.

Michael will be remembered for his patriotism, his love of family, his passion for music, his amazing cooking and his generous heart.

A Celebration of his Life will be held at a later date.