Paul Bittigar 1965-2026

Born on May 10, 1965, in Findlay, Ohio, Paul led a life marked by warmth, kindness, humor and an unwavering dedication to his family.

A graduate of Muncie High School in Indiana, Paul proudly served his country in the U.S. Army. After his military service, Paul spent the next three decades of his life mastering the art of residential construction and home repair, with his last four years turning his passion into a local legacy as owner and operator of Humble Hands Home Maintenance LLC, where his dedication to quality work reflected the values he lived by.

Paul was known for his love of cooking for family and friends, particularly his talent for grilling and smoking meats, with brisket being his specialty. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, whether it was a round of golf, watching his beloved Ohio State Buckeyes or enjoying the thrill of a successful brisket. His zest for life was underscored by his genuine spirit of generosity; he often engaged in random acts of kindness that always brought a happy tear to his eye and left a lasting impression on everyone who crossed his path.

Family was the cornerstone of Paul’s existence. He cherished every moment spent with his wife, children and their spouses, and especially his four grandchildren. Paul also took great delight in the company of his dog, Riley, and five granddogs, considering each of them adored members of his family. He was liked by everyone, loved by many and will be painfully missed by all.

Paul is survived by his loving wife, Sandra Rush Bittigar, whom he married on Dec. 21, 1985; his mother, Beverly Byers Bittigar of Fremont; his children, Joshua (Tai) Northrup of Austin, Texas, and Brandi (Robert) Runyon of Poland; his grandchildren, Bella, Breckin and Brooke Northrup and Tessa Runyon; his sister, Pamela (Brad) Thaxton of Little River, South Carolina; and several nieces and nephews.

Paul was preceded in death by his father, Louis Charles Bittigar Jr., and his brother, Robert Bittigar.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during calling hours from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27, 2026, at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Poland Chapel, 2726 Center Road, Youngstown, OH 44514. Everyday casual attire is acceptable, as if you were coming to Paul’s home for a cookout.

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27, 2026, following additional calling hours from 12:30 to 1 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages random acts of kindness in Paul’s memory.

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