James Edward Bittner

Jim Bittner, husband for 65 years to his late wife Betty Bittner, was a great husband, father, and grandfather. He was a fantastic father to his surviving children Linda (Morris), Gary, and Glenn; and a grandfather to Andrea Bennett and her children Elliott, Miles, and Calvin, as well as to Joshua Bittner (Irene) and Aaron Bittner, and Aaron’s children Keegan and Madison. He was the son of Helen and Fred Bittner and brother to Bill, Herb, and his surviving sister Lorraine (Klos).

Dad was a man of many skills and talents. He joined the U.S. Navy in 1942 during World War II and later spent 30 years working at Westinghouse (Bettis). Additionally, he worked part-time for Sears, South Hills Home Improvements, and assisted many others whenever there was a need. In the early years, as the family grew and the house became too small, he conceived the design of two home additions to include a bedroom,workshop and kitchen.  He drew up the plans and built the addition himself, from excavation (with a shovel and determination) to the roof.

Dad was a tireless worker. Nothing broken ever intimidated him—he could fix anything and was always willing to help others repair their things as well. When he wanted a black powder riflebut couldn’t afford one, he simply built it himself.

In recent years, dad became known as a storyteller. With a sharp memory for life’s past events, he loved to share stories of his life and travels with everyone who would visited. Dad deeply cared for his family and his home, and the Lord graciously granted his desire to live out all his days there. It was in that home that he passed peacefully this week.

Dad was blessed with abundant grace and friendship throughout his life and was deeply grateful for his family. At the age of 78, dad came to truly understand who Jesus Christ is, and he surrendered his life in faith to Him—in whose presence he now stands. His life was deeply enriched through his membership at Peters Creek Baptist Church, where he was surrounded by a loving and caring church family. Visitation Thursday from 4-7 pm at the David J Henney Funeral Home,6364 Library Rd., (RT 88), Library PA. A Funeral  Service will be held Friday at 11 AM in Peters Creek Baptist Church. Burial with full military honors will be held in Bethel Cemetery at noon. www.davidhenneyfuneralhome.com

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