Albert E. Dittman
East Falmouth, Mass. — Albert Edward Dittman, 74, of East Kingston, N.H., and East Falmouth, Mass., passed away peacefully Feb. 11, 2023, surrounded by loving family and friends.
Albert was born May 7, 1948, to August F. and Delores Davison Dittman in New London. He graduated from St. Bernard High School in New London, and went on to attend Mitchell College, where he was recognized as Scholar Athlete. Albert continued his education at the University of New Haven, where he graduated with a bachelor of science in business administration (economics) and later a master of business administration (management and organization).
After graduation, Albert began his career in purchasing at Electric Boat in Groton, then working at Turbo Products in Ivoryton, and retiring as purchasing manager from TECT in Newington. Having worked in the field of turbine engine components, he also held a certificate in metallurgy. He treasured the many friends he made along the way and enjoyed many “business” dinners with them at The Gris in Essex.
Albert loved politics, history, and all sports. He especially enjoyed the playoff seasons when he would root for his favorite teams, the Red Sox and his beloved Green Bay Packers. An avid sportsman, he played softball, baseball, football, basketball, racquetball, and golf. He played basketball with New London Recreational League, coached his girls’ softball teams, and was an NCAA women’s basketball referee for many years. He was proud of and honored by his inductions into the New London Athletic Hall of Fame and St. Bernard Athletic Hall of Fame. In later years he stayed in shape by taking up ballroom dancing.
He was also a proud member of the International Order of Old Bastards, and the Knights of Columbus, Seaside Council 17.
Albert and his future wife,
Valerie McCaslin, began dating in high school and married in 1968. Together they raised their two daughters, Andrea and Dana in southeastern Connecticut, having made homes in New London, Waterford and Lyme.
Albert was predeceased by his parents, August and Delores Davison Dittman. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Valerie McCaslin Dittman of East Kingston, N.H. and East Falmouth, Mass. He is also survived by his daughters, Andrea O’Donnell and her husband, Kevin, of North Andover, Mass., his daughter, Dana McNamara of Haverhill, Mass.; and his granddaughter Elise Maher. In addition, he leaves his brothers, George Dittman and his wife, Mary, of New London, William Dittman and his wife, Lisa, of North Stonington, and David Dittman and his wife, Tricia, of Coral Springs, Fla. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Monica Vonwinkle and her husband, Karl, of New London; and many nieces and nephews, cousins, and countless friends. He is missed by his pup, Bailey, every day.
The family would like to extend special thanks and gratitude to High Pointe House in Haverhill, Mass., for their compassion and reverence while caring for Albert. They would also like to thank Rockingham VNA, especially Askley and Jason, and a special thanks to friend Dawn.
Calling hours will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, and from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Friday, Feb 17, at E.V. Jutras & Sons Funeral Home, 118 Friend St., Amesbury, Mass. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Feb. 17, at Holy Family Parish Church, 11 Sparhawk St, Amesbury, Mass. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. Donations in Al’s memory may be made to East Kingston Fire Department, 5 Main St, East Kingston, NH 03827, or St Joseph Church, Holy Family Parish, 11 Sparhawk St, Amesbury, MA 01913.