David Lester Dittman

David Lester Dittman passed peacefully on January 19th, 2026 at 88 years old. Born September 26th, 1937, in Barnesville, Ohio; he grew up in Seymour, Indiana. Dave graduated from Ball State University where he met Jane Ellen Reed. They married January 11th, 1959, and were married 65 years before her passing in 2024. Dave and Jane moved to Ellicott City, Maryland in 1964, where they would raise their four sons. He worked for 30 years managing disability programs for the Social Security Administration. He was a longtime member of the First Presbyterian Church of Howard County where he sung in the choir and served as a Deacon.
Dave's legacy will be left in homes and buildings from Mississippi to Pennsylvania, though missed the most at home in Howard County. He was known as a go-to handyman and dedicated his life to serving others.
With the Columbia Cooperative Ministries Resettlement Program Dave assisted refugees from Vietnam, Cambodia, and Ethiopia find homes and jobs. As the volunteer coordinator for the Brooklyn and Curtis Bay Housing Coalition and Lightstreet, he worked with his fellow Hammers rehabbing Baltimore City. With Christmas in April and Camp Hope, he repaired rebuilt homes for those in need. He took many trips south following Hurricane Katrina to rebuild homes. Later in life he worked with Bridges to Housing Stability to end homelessness in Howard County. Dave's dedication to his community was celebrated by Howard County's Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.
He remained steadfast in his advocacy for underrepresented and marginalized communities, guided by a deep belief in equality and a lifelong commitment to building a better world for all.
He was a fan of the Baltimore Orioles, enjoying shared games with family at home and Camden Yards. An avid cyclist, he completed many century rides and could still be seen trudging up Ilchester road in his 70s. He was an Eagle Scout, an admirer of nature, and enjoyed studying German language and history. Along with his generosity, he will be remembered for his quick wit, huge heart, and easy company.
Dave was proceeded in death by his wife Jane Reed; mother Florence Baldwin; father Lester Dittman; siblings Joyce, Bill, Barbara, and Kathleen; and many beloved pets. He is survived by his sister-in-law Elizabeth Pierson; sons David, Stephen, Duane, and Michael; Grandchildren Christopher, Kristina, John, Audrey, Katie, Colleen, Jalen, Milena, and Catriona; and many great-grandchildren.
Services will be held on Monday, April 13th, at 4:00pm at First Presbyterian Church of Howard County: 9325 Presbyterian Cir, Columbia, MD

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to Bridges to Housing Stability.