Joshua Ditmer

Joshua Michael Ditmer, age 48, passed from his earthly life to eternal life on July 30, 2025 in Quincy, Illinois. In the final days before his death from rapidly progressing metastatic cancer, Josh was surrounded by a great crowd of witnesses: his lifelong friends from Asbury College and Duke University, his close friend Samantha Gwartney, his brothers Matt and Jon, his sons Caleb and Micah Ditmer, and his forever friend, co-parent, and caregiver at the end, Danyelle Trexler. Josh was born on April 13, 1977, and he grew up in Kokomo, Indiana. He was the son of Pamela and Larry Ditmer and nephew of Marilyn Wilson. He went on to earn a Bachelor's in Christian Ministry from Asbury College and then a Master of Divinity from Duke University. He spent most of his career as an ordained United Methodist pastor, serving churches in Indiana, Arkansas, and Illinois. As clergy, Josh was especially beloved for his pastoral visits and his ministry with the sick and dying. He later became a valuable team member at Dot Foods in Mt. Sterling. At one of Josh's favorite spots, Quincy's North End Tavern, Josh was simply known as "preacher man." Josh's family and friends loved him for his dry wit, sarcasm, and ability to make light and humor of almost any situation. Josh was a friend who was always happy and willing to deeply listen to others, never judging and always making them laugh. He spent his free time listening to beloved hymns and classic rock, playing the guitar, singing, and shooting the breeze with friends. But when Caleb and Micah were born – that's when Josh found his deepest and truest calling as their dad. Josh was an extraordinary father: steady and constant, affectionate and loving, a consummate encourager of their interests. He loved to come along side Caleb and Micah to play, to draw, and to wonder. He often could be found wearing a T-shirt the boys had gifted him. The three loved watching superhero movies, and to the boys, Josh was their hero. A man of deep faith and profound empathy for others, a steadfast friend, a loyal and devoted co-parent, and a stand-out dad – Josh Ditmer will be missed. Family and friends will gather on Saturday, August 9 for a visitation at 1:00 pm followed by a funeral at 2:00 pm at Vermont Street United Methodist Church, 818 Vermont St, Quincy, with Rev. Brian Jones officiating. Josh believed in coming before God just as you are. In celebration of this heartfelt belief, please do not feel the need to dress up for the funeral. After the funeral, all who loved Josh are welcome to celebrate his life at North End Tavern, 1130 N 24th St, Quincy. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Danyelle Trexler for the benefit of Caleb and Micah's education fund. Memorial donations may be made online at https://memorials.hansenspear.com/ www.hansenspear.com Hansen-Spear Funeral Directors are in charge of the arrangements.