Stephen D. Bitter
September 15, 1940 ~ February 6, 2017
Resided in:
Asheville, NC
Stephen Doughty Bitter, 76, died February 6, 2017.
Steve was born September 15, 1940, in Elizabethton, TN, and moved with his family to Asheville in 1949. He was a graduate of Christ School, Arden, Mars Hill College and earned his CPA license in 1971, receiving an honorary membership for 40 years of service. Among his many achievements he was appointed by the governor to serve on the NC State Board of CPA Examiners, and served as president. He served on many non-profit boards, including Chairman of the Board of Deerfield Retirement Community, treasurer of the Vestry at both St. Mary's and Trinity Episcopal Churches, chapter president of the NC Association of CPA's, Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, National Association of Accountants, United Way, Chief of Staff of the Brigade of Guards, and president of the board of governors of Biltmore Forest Country Club. Steve's passions were family and friends, golfing, flying a Cessna 174 and the occasional crude joke.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Millicent Ffolliott and Dr. John L. Bitter, his brothers, John L. Bitter, Jr. and Philip K. Bitter. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Clara; daughter, Margaret B. Ward and her husband, Barry & grandchildren, Robert, Emma & Megan; son, George S. D. Bitter; brother, Karl Bitter and wife, Mary Gladys; sister, Millicent Elmore and husband, Miles; and many nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held Thursday, February 9, at 2:00 PM at Trinity Episcopal Church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Trinity Parish, 60 Church St. or Christ School, Arden.
Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian is assisting the family.
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Clara, I am so sorry for your loss. Thinking and praying for you and your family.
Clara:
In our early lives, you could not have convinced me that I would be entering such a condolence, but it certainly seems real – so, I suppose it is.
We only knew Steve through you and George, but knowing you we are sure he was the very finest of fellows, and we send you and all your family and friends our heartfelt condolences and good wishes.
Kaye and Larry
Toni and I are saddened to hear of Steve’s death. He was a gentleman who never failed to give you his honest opinion. Warm, friendly, and always welcoming, he will be missed. Our prayers are with the entire Bitter family.
Clara – I was traveling when I heard about Steve’s death, and am so sorry for your loss. Steve was one of my best and long-time friends and I will miss him very much. I also very much regret that I can’t be with you for the memorial service Thursday due to a commitment I cannot re-arrange. But my thoughts will be with you and the family nevertheless.
Tony