February 1, 1950 – October 5, 2025
With profound sadness, his family regret to announce the passing of Stephen James Bitton on Sunday, October 5th, 2025. He died surrounded by the love of his family at the Listowel Memorial Hospital in his 76th year.
Husband of Anna (Sidorko) Bitton of Listowel. Father of Michael Bitton & Pauline Cecile of Brantford, Amanda Kaye & Nathan Burns of Listowel, and Angelica & David Francoeur of Listowel, and father-in-law of Yvonne Rosehart of Ottawa. Grandfather of Gavin, Reid, Wyatt, Quinn, Tessa, Noah, Simon, Evelynne, & Olivier. Brother of Brenda & Dave Coffell of Sudbury, Valorie & Ray Nolan of Whitby, and Jeff & Robin Bitton of Stirling. Steve was predeceased by his parents C. W. “Bud” & Mary (Mullin) Bitton and by his beloved son Stephen Bitton Jr.
Steve’s formative years were spent in Listowel; he attended the public elementary schools as well as Listowel District Secondary School for grades 9 and 10. Steve then moved with his family to Peterborough where he graduated from highschool with honours. He continued his education at Trent University in Peterborough, where he studied history and politics, and completed his teaching degree. While at Trent, he fell in love and married Anna, a fellow classmate. After graduation, the couple began their lifelong adventure together, starting with teaching at White Dog Native Reserve near Kenora, Ontario. After the birth of their first son, Stephen Jr., Steve & Anna settled in Listowel, where they welcomed Michael, Amanda, and Angelica to their family.
Giving back to the Listowel community was important to Steve. Steve was a career teacher, coach, and community volunteer. He was affectionately known as “Mr. B” to many pupils of Eastdale and Central Public schools. He was a member of various volunteer organizations including the Library, Daycare, and Parks & Recreation Boards. Over the years, he volunteered to support the local Terry Fox run, Big Brothers & Sisters Organization, and was known as the voice of Listowel, announcing at Listowel Legionnaire baseball games and Listowel Minor hockey games.
He was an avid reader, athlete, collector, music lover, and sports fan. In his retirement from teaching, Steve continued to enjoy these pastimes, as well as travel, often to see family or simply to continue his adventures with Anna. Steve’s greatest joys were found in watching the grandchildren perform in recitals and playing sports, or sharing a laugh at family gatherings.
Steve’s final days were made more comfortable through the efforts made by the exceptional staff at the Listowel Memorial Hospital. Steve will be greatly missed by friends, family, and students alike.
Visitation was held at the Eaton Funeral Home, Listowel on Wednesday, October 8th, 2025 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.
A private family funeral will be held at Knox Presbyterian Church in Listowel on Thursday, October 9th, 2025 with interment in Fairview Cemetery, Listowel.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Steve’s memory to the Listowel Memorial Hospital Foundation or the Big Brothers and Sisters Organization of Listowel.
Online condolences may be left at www.eatonfuneralhome.ca
