Richard L. Bitely, of Potsdam, NY passed away peacefully at the age of 86 on June 11, 2024, surrounded by family. He was predeceased by Ann M.(Squillace) Bitely, his loving wife of 52 years, his brothers John, Phillip, Orsemus, Alex Bitely, sister Olive Jane (Bitely) Brown, and his parents Orsemus Durward Bitely and Elizabeth Grace (Staples) Bitely of Rome, NY. Richard is survived by his sisters Cathy (Bitely) Davis and Elizabeth (Bitely) Gleasman of Rome, NY; and three children Ronald (Ron) Bitely of Greenville,SC; Randolph (Randy) & (Rebecca) Bitely of Delmar, NY; Russell (Russ) & (Julie) Bitely of Webster, NY. He was adored by his grandchildren Brad Bitely, Hannah Bitely, Kamryn Bitely, Brennan Bitely, Emilyn Bitely, Shaelyn Bitely, Tyler Bitely, and Brayden Bitely. He was also beloved by two great grandchildren Kylie Bitely and Layla Strong, and many nieces & nephews.
By trade, Richard was a professional photographer for SUNY Potsdam for 35 years. He was known for his dry humor, his charm, his love of hockey, hunting, traveling, enjoying a good IPA, and his talent for photography. Richard’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His unwavering dedication to his family, his passion for life, and his generous spirit will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the staff at Baywinde – Sage Harbor and all the care givers for their support, compassion, and kindness.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to:
American Heart Association,
PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692 or
www.heart.org;
Muss you Dad. May you be at peace.
LOVE Randy
Russ and Julie, Thinking of you. Linda & Rick
We are sorry to hear of Dick’s passing. We hold in our hearts so many fond memories.
Love, Aunt Joyce, Uncle Ralph & family
Ron, Randy & Russell,
So sorry to hear about Uncle Dick..
nothing but fond memories of all of us kids growing up together in NY…. Seems like yesterday, we all were swimming in Aunt Tina & Uncle Ricky’s pool,…. Life goes so fast!
Now for him , no more suffering, He is with a lot of our love ones, peaceful in Heaven…. Especially your Mon!
Uncle Dick was a kind soul with an awesome sense of humor & quick wit! Always enjoyed chatting with him, especially about Hockey!! He will be missed….
You & all your families are in our thoughts and prayers….❤️
Cousin Nicky & Family
Ron, Randy and Russ,
Our deepest sympathy on the passing of your father. Unfortunately, we didn’t have an opportunity to see Uncle Dick for many years however we can still envision his smiling face and joyful laugh. He was a wonderful and loving Uncle to many of us and will be missed. May God watch over Uncle Dick as he joins his brothers and sister in Heaven.
With love,
Niece Cindy Bitely Reppert and husband Dennis Reppert
Russ and Julie, Thinking of you during this difficult time. Love, The Humphrey Family
Russ, Randy & Ron,
Paul and I were saddened to hear of your father’s passing. We have many fond memories of times spent with your mom and dad, having dinner together and day drives into the Adirondacks. Sending hugs to you all.