Alan Charles Ritter

Alan C. Ritter, 81, passed peacefully June 8th after a long, courageous fight with cancer. His children Chuck and Jill were at his bedside. Alan was born in Queens on October 24, 1938 to Catherine and Charles W. Ritter. He attended Freeport High School, where he was a star basketball player and clarinet soloist. He continued his education at Ohio Wesleyan University, majoring in Business Administration. Upon graduation in 1961, he joined the family business, Universal Shellac. The company was established by his father, who had passed years earlier when Alan was only twelve years old. Alan found the love of his life, Ellen Partelow at college. They wed on December 30, 1961, settling into a home in Glen Cove. Alan's leadership of the family business led to successful expansions into new products lines, acquisitions and foreign markets. The company quickly grew and prospered, moving from Brooklyn to Hicksville in 1970. Alan's influence, drive and guidance over the decades ultimately resulted in a vibrant dynamic company, renamed Universal Photonics, with a global footprint in numerous advanced industries. In addition to growing Universal, Alan actively worked to advance the industry for the benefit of all. He was one of the original founders of the Vision Council of America, serving as its first president in 1986. Today it is the largest optical industry association. While his business accomplishments were many, Alan always prioritized family first. Alan was a tremendous role model who unconditionally loved his family. His family was his foundation, and the values of kindness, generosity and helping others he passed on are timeless gifts that his family will always treasure. As an avid golfer, Alan loved his bond with Nassau Country Club, where he and his family made many deep and enduring friendships. His love of the game brought him to many venues, including Augusta, Loch Lomond and Pebble Beach, to name just a few. He was a patient teacher of the game, enjoying the challenge of helping others learn to love the game as he did. Alan had a tremendous heart and his generosity had no limit. He donated a great deal of his time to charitable causes such as Prevent Blindness, Diabetes Research Institute and Bethany House, among many others. Alan always looked for ways to help others, no matter the circumstances, and would welcome opportunities to give back wherever he could. Affectionately known as "Opa" by his grandchildren, Alan's glowing demeanor, can-do attitude and care for others were his trademarks. His great character made a tremendous impact on all he met, and his influence and legacy will last forever. Alan is survived by his loving wife Ellen, children Jill Salditt (Richard), Chuck Ritter (Heather) and the late Amy Kowalski (Ken). Cherished grandfather of Luke, Matthew, Timothy, Catherine, Charlie, Gerogia, Eliza and Alina. Great grandfather of Ophelia. Dear brother of Norma Johnson and uncle of Neil Johnson. Visiting Monday, June 15, 2020 2-4 and 7-9 Whitting Funeral Home, 300 Glen Cove Ave., Glen Head, NY 11545 www.whitting.com. Internment private. A memorial service and celebration of Alan's life will be held at a later date to be announced. Contributions in Alan's name may be made to Diabetes Research Institute www.diabetesresearch.org.