John Christopher Bittel

John was a 1967 graduate of Stephen T. Badin High School. He attended Ohio University and earned his bachelor’s degree from University of South Florida, Tampa, later continuing his education at Kent State, where he graduated in 1987 with his MBA in Library Science. His intellect and steady wisdom were evident not only in his academic pursuits, but in the thoughtful way he moved through the world—always attentive, always sincere.

In 1969, John enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving until 1970, when he was physically retired following an accident that occurred on base. Resilient in the face of life’s abrupt turns, he carried himself with dignity and quiet resolve. He went on to serve the State of Ohio in Columbus, Ohio for many years, and later began and retired from his position as a Research Librarian for the State Library of Ohio. Throughout his working life, he was known for his honesty, loyalty, and the careful, principled way he approached both people and responsibilities.

John’s curiosity and sense of adventure found expression in his love of international travel, history, and an avid devotion to non-fiction reading. He took genuine pleasure in researching genealogy, following threads of family and time with patient care. He delighted in trivia, Jeopardy, and the satisfaction of a well-earned answer—often paired with a dry, well-timed humor that made conversation brighter without ever seeking the spotlight. His home reflected his appreciation for art, and his yard and garden reflected the same meticulous attention he brought to everything he valued.

Above all, John was beloved for the way he showed up for those he loved. He cherished time with family, especially his nieces and nephew, and took particular pride in creating his yearly Christmas gift family calendar—a tradition shaped by thoughtfulness, care, and the quiet joy of giving something personal and lasting.

John will be remembered with deep respect and enduring affection—for his integrity, his learning, his steadfast spirit, and the warmth that lived beneath his composed manner.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Titus and Mary Catherine (Laywell) Bittel and his sister, Mary Diane Bittel.

John is survived by his siblings, Maureen Bittel, Jo Marie Livingston, James Bittel, Jennifer (Tom) Zimmerman, Anitra (Victor) Santoro, Patrick Bittel, and Daniel Bittel; nieces, Emily (Joseph) Smith, Bailey (Joseph) Smith, and Caroline Santoro; nephew, Joseph (Christina) Santoro; great-nieces, Addison Smith, Avery Smith, and Callie Smith; great-nephews, Ryan Smith and Nico Santoro; and many friends.

In accordance with his wishes, John will be cremated and his ashes will be scattered in Florida on a memorial reef.

The family wishes to thank Capital City Hospice for the devoted care that they provided John.

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