David John Ricchio

David John Ricchio passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 4, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on February 19, 1940, in Racine, Wisconsin, Dave was the son of the late Tristram and Edith (Bertola) Ricchio.

Dave was a graduate of St. Catherine’s High School, attended Marquette University, and proudly served as a member of the Army Reserve. A talented artist and true visionary, Dave possessed a remarkable gift for capturing and recreating the beauty of the world around him on canvas. His creativity and artistic eye were evident in everything he pursued.

In 1970, Dave turned his artistic talent into a successful career by founding Wisconsin Screen Process, Inc. As President, he built the business through hard work, unbridled creativity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. In 2004, Dave sold the company, but retirement did not slow him down. Instead, he redirected his creative genius into the music industry, founding The Ricchio Connection, LLC. with his cousin, Danny Ricchio. Both spent countless hours composing original melodies, writing lyrics, and recording more than 50 original compositions. His music will live on for generations to enjoy.

On December 13, 1989, Dave married Sandra Jones, the love of his life. Together, they recently celebrated 36 years of marriage and lived life to the fullest. Whether residing on Lake Michigan, Pewaukee Lake, or the Gulf in Marco Island, Florida, Dave enjoyed nothing more than taking out his boat and sharing sunny afternoons with Sandy and their many friends.

Dave deeply loved his family. He enjoyed his dogs, tennis, golf, gardening, painting at his easel, cooking, and cheering on the Green Bay Packers—along with shopping trips with Sandy. Dave loved fast cars, and over the years owned many two-seater European sports cars.

Friendship was central to Dave’s life. He especially treasured his friends in both Racine and Florida. In Racine, Dave founded a Thursday lunch group known as “The Keepers,” intentionally rotating restaurants each week to support local business owners. In his honor, “The Keepers” plan to continue this weekly tradition.

Dave never took anything for granted and lived his life guided by faith, gratitude, humility, and an appreciation for God’s grace. With his bright smile, warm hugs, natural charisma, and unmistakable sparkle in his eyes, Dave had a way of drawing everyone into his world. He was a longtime member of Racine Country Club, Roma Lodge, and the Racine Founders Rotary Club.

Dave is survived by his wife Sandy, his daughters, Michelle (Dr. Joseph) Shea, Amy (Kevin) Hobert and Courtney (Phil) Dugliss; grandchildren, Megan (Dr. Charles) Lamberton, Kaitlin (Dr. Max) Behrend, Molly Hobert, Jack Hobert; great grandchildren, Leo and Patrick; brother, Robert (Kay) Ricchio; sisters, Renee (David) Benjamin and Deborah (Robert) Wiesner.

A celebration of Dave’s life will be held at Maresh-Meredith & Acklam Funeral Home, 803 Main Street, on Thursday, January 22, 2026. Relatives and friends may gather prior to the service from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.