JOHN MARK STITZER (Age 88)  

On October 21, 2016 this kind-hearted, generous, and witty gentleman died peacefully in his sleep, his wife, Alison Kern "A" at his side. Earlier, he and his daughter Alison Leighton "Leigh" shared smiles. John, born on January 12, 1928, in Mahanoy City, PA, graduated from Mahanoy City High School and after serving with the U.S. Army in Korea - Kutztown State University. During his highly regarded career at the Army Map Service and Defense Intelligence Agency, he lived in Washington, DC, and Bethesda, MD. John loved skiing "black" trails from Colorado to Austria (he was President of the Arlington Hall Ski Club); canoeing/fishing at his West Virginia cabin, and cruising Chesapeake Bay on the family's sloop ACTIVE. He was a member of the West River Sailing Club (MD) and the Edgartown Yacht Club (MA). A decade ago, the family moved to Great Falls, VA, where he happily: gardened; watched birds and donkeys; read news and poetry; saw his Leigh give horseback riding lessons/train at shows; and conversed with good friends over coffee in town. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Wayne D. Stitzer; two brothers, Harry (Pete) and Wayne; and a sister, Marbeth Foster. Survived by daughter, Beth Ross of Martinez, CA; sister, Barbara (Mrs. Louis) Greis of Crystal Beach, FL; nieces and nephews (and grands). He also leaves adoring canines, Abby, Kensi, and Skit. A private burial and a life celebration are planned.