Richard W. Bittler, 76, of Hermitage, passed away unexpectedly Friday afternoon, January 24, 2025.

Mr. Bittler was born March 10, 1948, in Sharon General Hospital, a son of the late Walter and Ruth (Rearick) Bittler. A 1966 graduate of Hickory High School in Hermitage, he later earned an associate's degree in business administration from Penn State University.

Rich worked as an I.T. manager at Wheatland Tube for many years.

He enjoyed volunteering at the Community Food Warehouse in Sharon, watching and caring for the wildlife in his backyard, and collecting coins. Rich always looked forward to family adventures at their hunting camp in Medix, PA, taking trips to the casino with his wife, Tomme', skiing trips with his kids, and hosting holiday parties. Above all, Rich loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

His wife of 22 years, Tomme' Bittler, whom he married July 20, 1997, preceded him in death on January 14, 2020.

Rich is survived by four sons, Rich Bittler (partner, Ruthann), Sharon, Craig Bittler (partner, Monique Bralich), Mercer, and Brad Bittler (Jodi) and David Bittler, all of Hermitage; two daughters, Stacey Laverock (Drew), Hermitage, and Jen Ray (Steve), Clark; 16 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents and wife, Rich was preceded in death by two sisters, Loraine Macuga and Ruthann Bittler; and two brothers, William and Gerald Bittler.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be directed to Community Food Warehouse, 109 A S. Sharpsville Ave., Sharon, PA 16146.

Calling hours will be 5 to 7 p.m. Friday (1-31-25), and from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday (2-1-25), both in J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1090 E. State St., Sharon.

A celebration of Rich's life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday in the funeral home.

Interment: Oakwood Cemetery, Hermitage.