[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 97 (Tuesday, June 9, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E551-E552]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF RONALD ``RON'' NEAL 
                               RICCITELLI

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MIKE LEVIN

                             of california

                  in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 9, 2026

  Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of 
Ronald ``Ron'' Neal Riccitelli, of Carlsbad, California, who passed 
away on May 11, 2026, at the age of 80. In honor of his passing, I pay 
tribute to and reflect on the life he led and the impact he had on our 
community in the 49th District.
  Ron was a resident of the Carlsbad community for nearly five decades 
and is remembered as a beloved husband, father, brother, educator, and 
friend.
  Ron grew up in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles, a few hours 
north of Carlsbad. He attended San Fernando High School in 1963 and 
went on to graduate from San Fernando Valley State College, where he 
earned his degree in Physical Education.

[[Page E552]]

  Following his time at university, Ron moved to the Tenamar Beach 
community of Carlsbad in 1977 and never left. Alongside his wife and 
partner Christine, Ron raised a family while simultaneously forming 
lasting bonds with his neighbors. Friends remember his caring nature 
and exceptionally handy ability to fix and improve the homes of others.
  Ron taught physical education and coached across North County San 
Diego for 38 years, a responsibility he embraced with great dedication. 
Over the course of nearly four decades, Ron served as a role model for 
the students at San Marcos Middle School, San Marcos High School, 
Carlsbad High School, and Palomar College. Under his mentorship, 
students were not only motivated to excel athletically but inspired to 
grow as people and take care of one another.
  At the age of 58, Ron retired from his career in education to travel 
the world, where he exercised his love for the outdoors across 
countries. Throughout his six-year battle with prostate cancer, Ron 
continued to show great resilience and optimism. Ron is remembered as a 
dedicated educator and a wonderful friend who has left behind a lasting 
legacy of courage, grit, and positivity.
  Ron Riccitelli exhibited a deep love for the City of Carlsbad and 
forged strong bonds within the greater Carlsbad community. He was a 
light to all who knew him and I share in the celebration of his life.

                          ____________________