Theodore Franklin Wittke

Celebrating a Life Well-Lived: Theodore (Ted) Franklin Wittke

Ted lived a full and wonderful 92 years before passing away on March 27, 2026. Born on February 5, 1934, to Fred and Susan (Schelling) Wittke, Ted lived a life defined by dedication, integrity, candor, and a deep love for both his family and nature. Ted was a man of service and action. After serving with honor in the U.S. Air Force, he transitioned into a successful career at IBM. Never one to sit still; he stayed busy piddling in his garage or tending to his garden. Over the years, he owned multiple RVs and loved taking trips to enjoy nature and visit family. He also had a passion for the "hunt," finding great joy in his hobby of buying and reselling items on eBay and Craigslist. Ted was fortunate to enjoy a long retirement. As a familiar face at the Udall Senior Center, he spent countless hours playing ping-pong and doing volunteer work. He kept his mind sharp with daily crossword puzzles and rarely missed a University of Arizona basketball game. As a photographer, he loved capturing and sharing photos of a plant in bloom or a beautiful Tucson sunset. Simply put, Ted was happiest when he was active. 

Ted has gone on to join his beloved wife, Jane (McMullen) Wittke, as well as his parents and siblings Joanne, Jerlyn, Mary, Bernard, and Jim. His spirit continues to shine through his surviving siblings, Winnie Bowling and Barb (Steve) Renz, and his children: David (Jenny), Dean (Kathy), Bill, Beverly (Steve) Hayes, Ed (Paula), and Marilynn (Bobby) Kramer. His legacy further lives through his 14 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, all of whom will forever remember his kindness and his stories. We celebrate a man who lived fully and loved deeply. He will be greatly missed, but his memory will always bring a smile to those who knew him.