Wayne Eugene "Amos" Dittman Sr., 91, of Emlenton, a life-long well known Richland Twp., Clarion Co. resident and farmer, passed away peacefully at his home, Saturday morning, November 21, 2020 with his wife of 49 years and his family by his side.

Wayne was born to Clifford and Rachel Brothers Dittman on August 6, 1929 on the family farm in the historic farm house on the homestead.  He was the last surviving member of his immediate family.

He first married Martha McKaern.  He is survived by his wife, Kathleen “Kay” Joyce Ehrhart Dittman, whom he married at the Lutheran Church in Venus on October 2, 1971.

He attended St. Petersburg schools before entering the workforce at age 15, hauling lumber for his dad.  He went on to work for the Perry Megnan Lumber Company.  At a young age, Wayne would brag how he could carry a giant tie on each arm, demonstrating his “super human strength”. 

He proudly served in the United States Marine Corp. and was a veteran of the Korean War.  He wore the Korean War Veteran hat his daughter Teresa gave him every day until his death.  Wayne was always shocked and amazed at the response his hat drew from the public as many people thanked him for his service and offered to pay for his meals.

Following his military service, Wayne was employed by the Womeldorf Trucking Company and retired at age 62. After retirement he worked the family farm until his body just wouldn’t allow him to do so.  Wayne was a driver for the Amish community for many years.

Wayne enjoyed gardening with his wife.  They were well known in the family for growing enough vegetables for all.  They would consistently win ribbons at the 4-H fair for their prize winning vegetables.  Wayne loved his farm, whether working it, hunting on it or just enjoying the view from his house on the hill that overlooks his property.  He especially loved spending time with his children and grandchildren.  Wayne would often be seen on the floor playing with his grandchildren. Little ones coming through the door would brighten his day and put a huge smile on his face.  As you walked through the door, Wayne’s offer would be “Something to eat?” and he never wanted you to leave hungry.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Kay and his five children, Wayne Jr., Donna, Randy (Gloria), Jackie Jones and Lisa. His grandchildren, Kimberly Sargent, Shawna (David) Rupert, Leroy (Bobbie) Dittman, Elaina Ware, Roy-Daniel (Janet) Eckert, Billy, Clifford and Rebecca Schall; 22 great-grandchildren, and a sister-in-law, Mary Jane Dittman.

His step-children, Susan Lauer, Brett (Diana) Lauer, daughter-in-law Robin Lauer, Mark Lauer and Teresa (Rob) Eury, 12 step grandchildren and 18 step great grandchildren, as well as a number of nieces, nephews, cousins, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

In addition to his parents and first wife, Wayne was preceded in death by his siblings Lewis, David Franklin “Ben”, Esther Brodock, Ruby Sollinger, John and infant brother Richard, a step-son, Gary Lauer, a nephew, a great nephew, several brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law and cousins.

Private visitation and a funeral service officiated by Rev. Randy Evans, Clarion Forest VNA Chaplain, will be held at the Hile Funeral Home Inc., St. Petersburg.  Private interment with military honors accorded by the V.E.T.S. Honor Guard of Franklin will in St. Petersburg Cemetery.  Condolences may be sent by visiting www.hilefh.com.