Kenneth D Hritz

Born August 17, 1953 in Natrona Heights, he was the son of the late George and Rose Hritz.

Ken graduated from Leechburg High School in 1971. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Westminster College, followed with a master's degree from Clarion University.

On August 1, 1981 he married the former Charlene Motzer who survives.

He attended First Presbyterian Church in Clarion.

Ken was a Biology and Environmental Science teacher at West Forest High School for 35 years, retiring in 2010. His interest in environmental science lead to coaching students in Envirothon competitions. Throughout his career as a teacher, he coached basketball, golf, baseball, and volleyball. He established the Ski Club and remained the advisor for several years into retirement.

Ken’s greatest joy was spending time with his family. He shared his knowledge and love of the outdoors with them through camping, hiking, skiing, fishing, hunting, and golfing. He enjoyed planning bike and travel trips as well as cooking and entertaining for family and friends. Ken and his wife spent many hours biking along the Clarion River in Cook Forest and local Rails to Trails. Their travels were oftentimes centered on visiting friends and exploring national parks.

Ken was a PIAA softball umpire for 31 years. He was a member of the Marienville Rod and Gun Club and American Legion Post 066 in Clarion.

In addition to his wife, Ken is survived by his daughter Sara Ivey and her husband Josh of Cranberry Township and son Ryan Hritz of Cranberry Township. He is also survived by his brothers George Hritz and wife Teresa, Don Hritz and wife Dianne, Tom Hritz and wife Regina, mother-in-law Virginia Motzer, brother-in-law Dennis Motzer and wife Susan, sisters-in-law Beverly Osten and husband Allan, Brenda Mazzocchi and husband Tony, numerous nieces and nephews, and many close and lifelong friends.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, nephew Michael Hritz, and father-in-law Bill Motzer.

As per his wishes there will be no public visitation.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Memorials in Ken's honor may be made to UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, 100 Fairfield Dr., Seneca PA, 16346.

Please visit www.fallerfuneralhome.com to share your memories and photos and offer your condolences.