Joseph E. Kittleman

 With much sadness we would like to announce the passing of JOSEPH KITTLEMAN 86, of Waterford, beloved husband, father, uncle, and grandfather. On Monday, December 9, 2024, he fell asleep in the hands of the Lord after a long battle with kidney disease at Lawrence and Memorial Hospital in New London 

He was born in Tacoma, Washington on December 27, 1937, the son of Everett and Lillie Crawford Kittleman. 

Joseph served in the U. S. Navy. He was the head custodian at Robert E. Fitch Sr High School in Groton for 30 years until his retirement in December 1999. 

Joseph was married to Linda Bodolato Branche on July 17, 1999, in Groton CT. 

Besides his wife Linda and his beloved puppy Teddy, he is survived by his son Bill (Holli) Kittleman of Salem (grandsons Tyler and Matthew) and son Charlie (Despina) Kittleman of Berlin (granddaughters Alena and Olivia) his daughter Cathy Giudice (Gerard) of Newington (grandchildren Maria, James and Gerard). He was predeceased by his brother Gale Kittleman and his sister Dora Heidinger. 

Joe led a simple life and enjoyed having his morning coffee with his group of friends at Panera. He was also very fond of youth sports and attended many softballs games in his time. He was an avid Mets fan and always enjoyed watching his favorite team. 

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday December 17 at 11 o’clock at the Byles Memorial Home, 99 Huntington St., New London. Private interment will be at a later date in Jordan Cemetery, Waterford. Visiting hours will be from 10:00 am until the start of the service. In memory of Joseph, donations can be made to National Kidney Foundation