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The woodworking industry lost one of its most dedicated pioneers last week with the passing of Ase Stornetta on April 16, in his home state of California. A lifelong innovator and passionate advocate for American manufacturing, Ase leaves behind a legacy of craftsmanship, leadership, and ingenuity that has shaped the woodworking machinery sector for decades.
A proud Californian, Ase was raised on a family farm in Northern California, where he developed a deep appreciation for working with his hands and an early interest in mechanical systems. That passion led him to the wood machinery industry where he would make an enduring impact.
In 1988, Ase purchased Ritter Manufacturing from its founder Joe Ritter. Under his leadership, Ritter flourished, becoming a respected name known for rugged, reliable woodworking machines. Based in Antioch, California, Ritter Manufacturing operated from a 65,000-square-foot facility and was fully vertically integrated—handling fabrication, machining, and assembly in-house. Many Ritter machines built under Ase’s direction are still running strong more than 45 years later.
In 2001, Ase expanded Ritter’s capabilities by acquiring the Crouch product line, reinforcing the company’s strength in pocket-hole, boring, sanding, shaping, and assembly equipment. A talented engineer with a keen sense for practical design, Ase led his team in developing machines that met the real-world needs of woodworkers across North America.
In 2016, Ase sold the Ritter brand to Choice Machinery Group, where the line continues to be built and supported under the name Ritter Machinery Company in Holland, Michigan. Even after the sale, Ase remained a valued advisor to the company and was always willing to share his knowledge—even about machines he hadn’t seen in over a decade.
Ase continued his career in the wood industry by joining Klor Machinery, working alongside George Duffy and maintaining an active presence at trade shows. His commitment to the craft, tireless work ethic, and generous mentorship made him a beloved figure across the industry.
In 2023, Ase officially retired and returned to his roots, settling in the rural community of Bangor, California, where he enjoyed the peaceful outdoors and the satisfaction of hard work on the land he loved.
We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. Ase Stornetta’s impact on the woodworking industry will not be forgotten.
Read Ase's obituary here.
