Van Ritshie Death: Van Ritshie of New Paltz, New York, who was a professional voice actor, radio announcer, and morning show host for Oldies98.9, Straus Media Group, WALL Radio, Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), Sunrise Broadcasting in Ulster County, PGA Tour, Ripleys Believe it or Not, Disaster ride at Universal Studios has died. He was the husband of Barbara and was a loyal patriot of his country and community. He was from Queens, New York, and lived in New Paltz, New York. His death has left so many hearts in his family and community, especially his wife, Barbara completely heart broken and shattered.
At the time of this report, his cause of death was not disclosed by his family. They will also disclose his funeral plans and obituary at a later time that is suitable for them. Please keep his family and loved ones in your loving thoughts and prayers as they go through this very painful experience at this period of their lives.
“…So sad to hear local radio personality Van Ritshie has passed over Van was on local radio for decades in the Hudson Valley. Known for his distinctive voice on air he did voice over work, sang and was also DJ, we lived in Sunnybrook in Highland as neighbors for a few years always a friendly and fun guy. Our sincere condolences to Vans family and his many friends and associates our prayers are with you all during this difficult time…” _Art Horton
“…On Sunday, I learned that our friend Van Ritshie passed away. I’ve worked with him at a few stations in the Hudson Valley over the past 40 years. Van always had warm ‘good morning’ and would ask how my family was. Van had a big heart, in addition to his big voice. I remember when talking to him about being part of the WALL Radio family, he expressed concern about the person he was replacing. He was comforted when I told him that person was not being replaced, only being moved to another morning show with no change in pay. He was happy to hear that…. Because he had a big heart…” _Wall Radio
“…In memory of Van Ritshie, a Hudson Valley broadcast legend, whom I had the pleasure of working with while I was doing afternoons at Clear Channel station Star 93.3 circa 2003-2005. Of course That Voice! But also that heart of his which was twice as big as his incredible voice.
As a fellow voice actor, He taught some cool voice tricks and tips that I still use to this day. Van was incredibly generous with his wit and wisdom and I will always be grateful…” _SpeedQuizzing with Dave Hunter
“…a Hudson Valley broadcast legend, whom I had the pleasure of working with while I was doing afternoons at Clear Channel station Star 93.3 circa 2003-2005. Of course That Voice! But also that heart of his which was twice as big as his incredible voice. As a fellow voice actor, He taught me some cool voice tricks and tips that I still use to this day. Van was incredibly generous with his wit and wisdom and I will always be grateful…” _David Strickland
Van was a very good & close friend of mine fur may years. We were on WGNY oldies radio station fur a few years together. I did the Billy the Biker segments. I used to do the morning bike reports and car show events to help raise money for kids dealing with cancer and other serious medical problems. We used to golf together, lunch & just hav’a great time. Whenever he called me on my cell, I’d laugh because his ID picture was of him sitting on my motorcycle flipping the bird. He was a great friend and one of the most generous people I’ve ever known. He’ll always be in my heart. R.I.P. brother. See ya on the other side one day.