Robert Lee Dittert Jr.

Robert Lee Dittert Jr passed away peacefully in his sleep on November 4, 2023, at the age of 80.

Robert was born in McAllen, Texas on August 14, 1943, to Robert Lee Dittert Sr and Naoma Hefflefinger Dittert. Two years later they moved to Millheim, Texas, where he grew up with his two sisters and brother: Cheryl, Kathleen, and Mark. He attended Bellville High School, after which he joined the Marines in 1960 and served until 1964.

He had an excellent year in 1965, graduating from the Texas Department of Public Safety Academy and marrying the love of his life, JoAnn Faltisek Dittert.

Robert used his GI bill for flight lessons in 1968 and his second love was born. In the 80’s, you could find him on the weekends flying over Galveston beaches or Kyle Field towing advertising banners. He also received his instructor rating and shared his love of flying with many students.

He retired from the DPS after 28 years of service and continued his love of flying. He received his glider pilot rating in 1990. He and JoAnn moved to New Mexico and began volunteering with the National Soaring Foundation, hosting many Regional and National Soaring Competitions. He was also very involved with the Civil Air Patrol training many young cadets how to fly Sailplanes.

In 2003, they moved back to Missouri City, Texas to enjoy their retirement and be closer to family. Robert and JoAnn continued to fly, enjoying Fly-Ins, Oshkosh, Sun n Fun and the Ravens’ Reunions, where they met many special friends over the years.

Robert is preceded in death by his parents; Robert Sr and Naoma Dittert.

He is survived by his wife, JoAnn Dittert; his daughter, Veronica Dittert (Michael Talley); his son, Robert Dittert (Dee); grandchildren, Kara Beard (Josh), Kaylyn Keller (Cole), Kelsey Christian (Chase), and Cody Koehler; great grandchildren, Emery and Keaton Beard; his sister Cheryl Bounds (Randy); sister, Kathleen Bauhs (Michael); his brother, Mark Dittert (Kathy) and many nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Mass will take place on Saturday, December 9th at 11am at Holy Family Catholic Church, 1510 Fifth St, Missouri City, TX 77489, followed by a reception.

In Lieu of flowers the family asks for contributions to Lone Star Flight Museum https://lonestarflight.org/support/give/ or Alzheimer’s Association https://www.alz.org/