CHILI - June 26, 2023. Joseph is predeceased by his parents, Joseph & Pauline DeRitis. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Marie "Mary" (Celso) DeRitis; children, Eric (Paula) DeRitis, Julie Bernacki, & Pamela DeRitis; grandchildren, Katherine DeRitis, Timothy Bernacki, & Peter Bernacki; sister, Sandra Giosio; several nieces, nephews, cousins & dear friends.

Joseph was considered a uniquely kind, humble, and gentle soul by everyone who knew him. He imbued his children with a love of music and classic comedy. He was passionate about world history, cooking, humor, woodworking, and the arts. He made his mark on Rochester in the late 1960s and early 1970s by designing and hand-building the intricate ground sets used in the city's annual July 4th fireworks shows, which were produced by his father's company, DeRitis Fireworks. Joseph was a proud member of the first four graduating classes at St. John Fisher University- collectively known as the Pioneer Group. He graduated in 1958 and remained an active Fisher alumnus throughout the rest of his life.

Joseph's life story will be shared during his visitation at the funeral home, 1411 Vintage Lane (Between 390 & Long Pond Rd.) Friday, July 7th, 2-4 & 6-8 PM. His funeral mass will be celebrated on Saturday, July 8th, 9:30 AM at St. Pius X Church, 3010 Chili Avenue 14624. His interment in St. Pius X Cemetery will be private. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider donating to either Holy Childhood, 100 Groton Parkway, Rochester, NY 14623, or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 in Joseph's memory.