Obituary of John Mark Stitzer

John Mark Stitzer (Age 88) John Mark Stitzer has died peacefully in his sleep. His wife of 37 years Alison Kern ("A") was at his side; awake earlier, he'd visited with his daughter Alison Leighton ("Leigh"). Born in Mahanoy City, PA, on January 12, 1928, John served in the U.S. Army in Korea and graduated from Kutztown State College. He enjoyed a long and successful career at the Defense Intelligence Agency, living first in Washington, D.C. and then Bethesda, Md. His favorite sport changed from fresh water fishing and canoeing to -- with his Alison and Leigh--cruising and sailing the Chesapeake on the family's sloop ACTIVE. He was a member of the West River (MD) Sailing Club and the Edgartown (MA) Yacht Club. In the winter, he loved skiing the "black" trails of Canada, New England, Colorado, and Austria. His wit, warm smile for everyone, and ceaseless energy were so appreciated during his popular tenure as President of the Arlington Hall Ski Club. Later, he was a super "horse show Dad" for his Leigh. For the past decade, he has lived in Great Falls, VA, where he enjoyed gardening, music, poetry, bird (and donkeys) watching - and morning coffees in town with his good friends. John also leaves a daughter Beth Ross of Martinez, CA; a sister Barbara (Mrs. Louis) Greis of Crystal Beach, FL; numerous nieces and nephews (and grands); and Abby, Kensi, and Skit -adoring canines. He was predeceased by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Wayne D. Stitzer; two brothers, Wayne and Harry (Pete) and a sister, Marbeth. The family plans a private burial and a memorial celebration of his life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Mahanoy City Historical Society is suggested.