R.P. Bittle

R.P. Bittle, also lovingly known as “Pete” – peacefully entered into eternal rest on Friday, July 11, 2025, at the age of 94, surrounded by his family. Born on November 22, 1930 in Chesterfield, S.C. Beloved son to the late Lonnie Bittle and Cora (Streater) Bittle. He spent nearly his entire life in New Haven, Connecticut, where his family, friendships, and boundless generosity left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him. He worked in the commercial and industrial industries as a plumber and mechanic. He had his own plumbing business where he helped family and friends after his full-time employment, often being on call, ready, willing and able at any time. He had creativity and skills to the point that what-ever was needed to be done, he would find a way.

Pete was a member of Immanuel Missionary Baptist Church in New Haven for over 70 years. Also, he was a member of the Elks fraternal organizations: Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the World (IBPOE of W) East Rock Lodge #141, for over 60 years. Pete was a member of the Past Grand Exalted Ruler’s (PGERS) Club of Connecticut since 1980 and served under four Grand Exalted Rulers. He was also a member of Gilson council number 75 PGERS. In addition, he was a distinguished and long-standing member of the AntlerGuard Department, holding the esteemed rank of General. He proudly served as the Administrator to the Connecticut Brigade Commander, and the National and Eastern Division Drill-A-Rama Staff Member.

One of Pete’s favorite activities was watching boxing, he even shadow-boxed while watching on TV. He also enjoyed getting together and going to restaurants with his Elk brothers regularly. Another social activity of his, was going to the casinos. He enjoyed long distance driving and would jump in the car with his wife and drive South over 12 hours at a moment’s notice.

He is survived by his lovely wife Amanda Bittle (66 years of marriage), children: Ivy Bittle (Evans Joseph), Sarita Bittle-King (Pastor James King III), Les Pierres’ (Perry) Streater, Pamela Rosa (Raphael) and siblings: Sarah Underwood and Audrey Powell (Jason). He was predeceased by his brothers Mack (Crystal – deceased), Jesse (Jannie) (Seena Mae – deceased), Arthaniel (Lucille – deceased), Hubert (Catherine), and O.G. (Gloria – deceased) Bittle; Grandchildren: Sarita’s Family: Step-Grandchildren Minister Jamuel King (Topeka), Darius King, Great-Grandchildren: Leilani King, Ezra King. Pamela’s Family: grandchildren: Raphael Rosa Jr., Sasha Rosa, Domingo Rosa, Joe Rosa – deceased; great-grandchildren: Shylah Rosa, Reese Rosa, Brianna Rosa, Dane Rosa. Les Pierres’ Family: granddaughter Michelle Streater; great-granddaughters: Nicolette Streater and Lillyanna Streater.

To his many nieces, nephews, Pete was more than an uncle-he was like a father, a mentor (sharing and teaching his skills to others), and a friend. From day one he felt a calling to look after the family, and he fulfilled that role with unwavering love and generosity. Heartfelt fact: Pete was instrumental in helping bring people and their family from the South to here in the North. R.P. (Pete) Bittle may be gone from our presence, but his character, smile, unique eye color, and his spirit of giving will live on forever in our hearts. Pete will be greatly missed by all. He also leaves to cherish his memories an abundance of cousins and friends.

A Celebration of Pete’s Life will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at New Flame Restoration Church, 1375 State Street, New Haven, CT 06511 at 9:30am. Service will be live streamed using Zoom, go to www.zoom.us/j/6645416618, Meeting ID: 664 541 6618, Password: 837735. Church viewing is from 8:30am – 9:30am. Burial will follow at the Beaverdale Memorial Park Cemetery in New Haven, Connecticut. Condolences may be expressed at www.colonialfunerals.com.