Richard “Dick” Peter Dittman passed away peacefully at the Kanas Hospice Center in Quiogue on December 1, 2016.
Born in Manhattan on February 24, 1928 to George Hazard and Marion Thruelsen Dittman, Richard spent his entire youth in Brooklyn, graduating from Brooklyn’s Adelphi Academy. He attended Princeton University earning a degree in physics in 1950. Upon graduation, he joined Mutual Benefit Life Insurance Co. as a student actuary, eventually pioneering their computerization and IT organization during the 60s and 70s.
In 1953, Richard married his longtime friend, Barbara Morgan. They settled in Westfield, New Jersey and together raised three sons. They were active in church and community, particularly in Cub/Boy Scouts’ leadership, and as a family enjoyed regular excursions to their Eastern Long Island home in Peconic on the North Fork. Dick and Barbara were married for 58 years.
Retiring to their Peconic home in 1988, Barbara and Dick continued to pursue their passion for boating, sailing, and the many pleasures of the Eastern Long Island community through the following years. They were actively involved with the US Power Squadron, where Dick served as Commander as well as in other teaching and ongoing Squadron committee positions.
In all things, Richard sought the challenge of problems; preferring thoughtful innovation to conventional wisdom. Beneath a tough demeanor, he was a courageous and spirited man, with a gentle and generous heart.
Predeceased by his wife Barbara and his son, G. Evans, Richard is survived by his daughter-in-law Diane (Thomson) of Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, his son, Peter and his wife Jeanne (Cutrona) of Boston, his youngest son, David and his wife Susan (Butcher) of Farmingdale, and his four grandchildren, Nicholas, Leah, Andrew, and Jason.
Calling hours will be held on Saturday, December 17, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a service immediately following at Coster-Heppner Funeral Home in Cutchogue.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to East End Hospice – they played such a valuable and important role in Richard’s last several days, weeks, and months – enabling him to pass as he wished.
