Larry Eugene Rittenberg

Larry Eugene Rittenberg July 13, 1946 – December 14, 2025

Larry Eugene Rittenberg, age 78, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of academic excellence, professional integrity, and deep love for his family, students, and colleagues. His life was one of purpose, intellect, and compassion, marked by a tireless commitment to advancing the accounting profession and nurturing the next generation of scholars.

Larry was born on July 13, 1946, in Omer, Michigan, to Gerald (Chuck) and Donna Rittenberg. His family settled in Webberville, Michigan, where Larry spent his formative years. Even as a young man, he displayed a natural curiosity and a strong work ethic—qualities that would define his life and career. He graduated from Webberville High School in 1964 with honors and went on to attend Michigan State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting in 1968, also graduating with honors.

While at Michigan State, Larry took the CPA exam for the state of Michigan and achieved the highest score statewide, earning the prestigious William A. Paton Award for excellence. He continued his studies at Michigan State, completing a Master of Accountancy before beginning his professional career with Ernst & Ernst (now Ernst & Young) in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Though his early success in public accounting was impressive, Larry soon realized that his true passion lay in teaching and research. He pursued his Ph.D. in Accounting at the University of Minnesota, where his interest in auditing and internal controls began to take center stage.

In 1975, before completing his doctorate, Larry taught for one year at the University of Tennessee. The following year, he joined the University of Wisconsin–Madison—a decision that would shape the rest of his life. Over the next four decades, Larry became a highly respected and beloved figure in the School of Business. A gifted teacher and mentor, he taught courses in accounting and auditing, inspiring thousands of students with his enthusiasm, clarity, and deep sense of ethics. Larry’s leadership helped launch UW–Madison’s five-year auditing program, bridging the gap between academia and the professional world by connecting students with top accounting firms and industry leaders.

Larry’s influence extended far beyond the classroom. He served as Chair of the Accounting Department for 11 years, guiding its growth and reputation for excellence. His scholarly work and professional service made him an international authority in auditing, internal control, and risk management. He served for 11 years with COSO (the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission), including six years as Chair, where he helped develop frameworks that continue to guide internal control and risk management practices worldwide. Larry was also deeply involved in the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), where he chaired the Research Foundation and was instrumental in rewriting the definition of internal auditing—a landmark achievement that has stood the test of time.

In recognition of his contributions, Larry received numerous awards and honors, including the American Accounting Association’s Outstanding Audit Educator of the Year Award and the Internal Institute of Auditing’s (IIA) prestigious Bradford Cadmus Award for Outstanding Service to the Profession of Internal Auditing in 2005. In 2017, he was inducted into the IIA Hall of Fame for his distinguished career and lifelong dedication to advancing the auditing profession.

Larry’s expertise was sought after around the globe. He lectured internationally on ethics, internal controls, and risk management, sharing his insights with corporate leaders, government officials, and fellow educators. His publications—ranging from research monographs to textbooks—have shaped the study and practice of auditing for decades. His widely acclaimed textbook, Auditing: Concepts for a Changing Environment, now in its 11th edition, remains a cornerstone in accounting education. He also authored numerous research books and monographs, including Politics of Internal Auditing and Measuring and Monitoring Risk and Management.

Outside academia, Larry brought his expertise to the corporate world as a respected board member and advisor. He served on the Board of Directors of Woodward, Inc. (WWD), where he chaired the Audit Committee for 11 years, and served as an Advisor to the Board and Audit Committee of PetroChina for five years, helping the company navigate its registration with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

While his professional accomplishments were extraordinary, those who knew Larry best will remember him most for his warmth, humor, and humility. He met the love of his life, Kathleen (Kathy), through his best friend and her cousin, Dave Jason. Together, Larry and Kathy built a life defined by love, partnership, and shared purpose. They celebrated 58 years of marriage, supporting one another through every adventure, move, and milestone.

Larry was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathleen; his children, Brian (Tracy) Rittenberg and Marianne (Darin) Keuhn; his grandchildren, Abigail and Mitchell; step-grandchildren, Michael, Phil, and Nick; and step-great-grandchildren, Quinten and Silas. His family was his greatest joy, and he took pride in their every accomplishment. He delighted in family gatherings, cherished long conversations, and found immense happiness in his role as “Grandpa.”

Two places held a special place in his heart: the family cabin in northern Wisconsin and Big Hook Wilderness Camp in Ontario, Canada, where he returned each summer to fish for more than fifty years. In these cherished settings, he found peace and contentment, enjoying the simple pleasures of nature and the company of friends and family, often gathered around a table playing Wizard, pinochle, and other favorite games.

Larry’s influence extended far beyond his professional reach—he was a mentor to colleagues, a trusted advisor to students, and a friend to many around the world. Known for his intellect, integrity, and quick wit, Larry had an unmatched ability to bring out the best in others. He believed deeply in the power of education and dedicated his life to helping others discover their potential.

A memorial service will be held January 17, 2026 at Cress Funeral Home 6021 University Drive, Madison. Visitation at 10AM, Service at 11AM with Lunch to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Larry E. Rittenberg MAcc Impact Fund at the University of Wisconsin, in honor of Larry’s lifelong dedication to education, ethics, and the future of accounting. Make a Gift | University of Wisconsin Foundation

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